Stirring up tension

Workers Party North Belfast spokesperson Gemma Weir has condemned the violent protests outside Crusaders’ home ground, Seaview, on Saturday as the actions of a small group of people intent on using sport as a means of further stirring up sectarian tension.

 “After concerns were raised by local residents late last year, staff at both Cliftonville and Crusaders engaged with the residents in a series of constructive meetings. This process was so successful that planned protests were called off and residents wrote to the Cliftonville Chairman to thank him for his input into achieving a resolution”. Ms. Weir said:

“But some elements were determined to use the sporting fixture as a means of heightening sectarian tension, come what may”.

 “The Workers Party agrees with Crusaders management that sectarian politics have no part to play in sport. This attempt to ratchet up tension by bringing the ‘flags protest’ into football is reprehensible.” Ms Weir added