The annual Christmas morning Camlough mountain climb this year was in solidarity with the people of Gaza and those taking part helped raise a total of £365 for the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).
Among those who participated on the mountain climb which started in Camlough village were local MLA Conor Murphy, Slieve Gullion area councillor, Declan Murphy, and MP for St Helen’s in England Conor McGinn who was visiting his family for Christmas.
Councillor Declan Murphy, one of the organisers of the event thanked all who had participated in the event, said: “Our sincerest thanks to all those who helped organise the climb and all those who joined us on this Christmas morning in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“The message loud and clear to the Palestinian people on Christmas Day from Camlough south Armagh was that we say to the people of Gaza, we will never stop speaking up for you, never stop marching for you, never stop demonstrating for you. We will not forget you. Not at Christmas. Not ever. We demand a Ceasefire Now!”.
The management and staff of Cafè Mon Abri on Main Street Camlough provided welcome refreshments for all climbers. Their generosity and that of those from the climb saw a total of £365 being raised for the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)
Camlough man, Pat McGinn, explaining the work of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), said: “Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) works for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees.
“The Charity provide immediate medical aid to those in great need, while also developing local capacity and skills to ensure the long-term development of the Palestinian healthcare system.”
He continued: “Melanie Ward the CEO of MAP asked me to thank all for their donation and for standing in solidarity with her colleagues as they continue to save lives – and protect their own families and loved ones.
“Anyone who wishes to find out more about the work of Medical Aid for Palestinians can do so by visiting their website www.map.org.uk
Concluding, Pat said: “The brutal and bloody onslaught against the people of Gaza by Israel must stop. What is required is a full and immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages by both Israel and Hamas.
“Our Christmas morning mountain climb was a generous and compassionate act of solidarity with families who are struggling to survive in Gaza – and, increasingly, those living in fear across the West Bank and East Jerusalem. We will not stop talking about Palestine.”
