Sinn Féin councillor Dermot Nicholl has expressed his disappointment at Unionist councillors who voted down a motion to include the Republic of Ireland football team to a reception by the council.
Colr. Nicholl said
“I am disappointed by the petty mindedness of Unionist councillors who have shown utter contempt for the many fans of the Republic of Ireland throughout the borough and the rest of the North.”
“It is in particular bad taste considering the manager is a former native of our Council area as he comes from Kilrea.
“I know of many young people who travelled down to Dublin last Monday to cheer on the team as they defeated Bosnia on what was a very memorable night and they will be bitterly disappointed to be left out in such a way.
“This was an opportunity to show inclusiveness in celebrating the magnificent achievements by both teams in reaching the Euro finals next year which some Unionist councillors have squandered due to their anti Irish ethos.”
