DPP member stands firm in face of arson attack
December 23, 2008
An independent member of Newry and Mourne District Policing Partnership has vowed to continue her work for the community despite a recent arson attack on her property.
A new home currently under construction, belonging to Annette Hughes from Dromintee, was fire damaged and daubed with graffiti in an overnight attack on Thursday night/Friday morning.
A site machine used for transporting materials, which was parked beside the house, was also set on fire and was completely destroyed in the attack.
Mrs Hughes said the attack on her property would not deflect her from her duties and she vowed to continue to stand up “for the right of people in this community to proper policing.”
“There are a small number of people who clearly see this as a threat,” she said.
“Given the past experiences of people within this community of bad and partisan policing, it is essential that the progress being achieved is not undermined by the actions of a few thugs who care nothing for local people.”
condemnation
The attack on Mrs Hughes’ property has been strongly condemned by local Sinn Féin councillors and MP for the area, Conor Murphy, who blamed a “tiny criminal minority” for the attack.
Paying tribute to the important work being carried out by the independent members of the DPP like Mrs Hughes, Conor Murphy MP said, “This was a disgraceful attack on an independent member of the local DPP who is working hard to hold the police to account and ensure that the local community get the policing that people demand.”
Mr Murphy said there is a “tiny criminal minority” in the area which is opposed to the delivery of effective and accountable policing.”
Dromintee Sinn Féin councillor Packie McDonald added his condemnation of the attack saying, “I am sure that this cowardly attack will not deter anyone on the DPP from continuing to work to achieve truly accountable policing for the people of South Armagh.”
investigation
The PSNI said they were investigating the attack on the house on the Aghadavoyle Road and said a motive had yet to be established.
