A motion for Council to participate in this year’s Pride parade has been rejected in Craigavon this evening (Monday).
Tonight’s U-turn – which was largely Unionist backed – has been described as “utterly depressing” by Sinn Fein.
Party leader, councillor Darren McNally expressed his frustration at Unionist Councillors in what he called a “continual denial of rights”.
“In June we successfully passed a motion for ABC council to participate in this year’s Pride parade,” he explained.
“Unionists decided to overturn this this evening due to the cost involved – a mere £500 to £850.”
“ABC serves a diverse community, including those from the LGBT community. They too pay rates. That Unionists came together to vote this initial proposal down is depressing.”
Sinn Fein’s Catherine Nelson added: “Unionists have tonight successfully overturned our motion to participate, as a council, in this years Pride parade due to the cost involved. How utterly depressing.”
A Council spokesperson said: “Prior to last night’s meeting, no decision had been made on whether or not to participate in the parade.
“Council officers explored the option of participation in the parade, as stipulated in the original notice of motion, and a report was submitted for consideration.
“Elected members decided at last night’s council meeting not to participate in the parade.”
The Rainbow flag will still fly from Civic buildings on Pride Day on Saturday, August 3.
Unionist councillors vote down ABC Council participating in the Pride parade. Hiding behind “cost” – a mere £500.
You cannot put a price on equality and acceptance.
— Eóin Tennyson (@EoinTennyson) July 22, 2019
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