‘Offensive’ sign calling for boycott of Derg businesses removed

A SIGN that police were treating as a ‘hate crime’ calling for the boycott of Castlederg businesses has been removed. 

The sign calling for the boycott of businesses and religious ceremonies in the Castlederg and Aghyaran areas was placed on the wall of Priests Lane Car Park in Castlederg on Friday.

The sign stated, “Firstly, we have nothing against Protestant culture, but the way our town looks is unacceptable. We understand that it is a minority that is behind the erection of these flags.”

It continued, “So from Friday the 29th of November we call for a full boycott if all businesses in Castlederg and surrounding areas and also a boycott of all religious ceremonies over Christmas in the town centre.”

The police announced that they are treating the incident as a ‘hate-motivated’ incident.

A spokesperson said, “Police are aware of a sign being erected in the Castlederg area on Friday, November 22.

“The report is being treated as a hate-motivated incident, and enquiries are ongoing regarding the circumstances surrounding the signage.”

But, yesterday (Monday) evening, UUP councillor for the area, Alderman Derek Hussey, revealed that the sign had been removed.

Mr Hussey said, “I trust that all will agree that the sentiments expressed on these signs are totally repulsive and are rejected by the vast number of citizens in our Castlederg area.

“Let’s see all of our local businesses having a bumper festive season trade and all community festive events overwhelmingly supported.”

Sinn Féin MLA Maolíosa McHugh described the sign as ‘disgraceful’ and also condemned those behind it.

The West Tyrone MLA said, “The sign erected and addressed to the people of Castlederg and Aghyaran is absolutely disgraceful, and I want to fully condemn whoever is behind it.”

However, he added, “I also reiterate the call for the removal of flags from the town centre, which is a shared space.”