A Crossmaglen councillor is urging Newry, Mourne and Down Council to develop feasible Halloween activities in light of the current pandemic.
Sinn Fein’s Aoife Finnegan fears an idle approach borne out of the current health restrictions could potentially see an unwanted return to anti-social behaviour once associated with Halloween.
“We all recognise the likelihood that Halloween festivities throughout the region will be cancelled or curtailed due to Coronavirus concerns,” explained councillor Finnegan.
“However, I believe that council officials, with all appropriate agencies and key stakeholders, need to work together to develop feasible activities which can help ensure the festival can be celebrated whilst ensuring public health and safety.”
Councillor Finnegan cited the likes of the Crossmaglen Halloween Festival which has been “very successful”.
“The Festival has ensured that local families and communities enjoyed the fun of Halloween in a safe and welcoming environment; we cannot let that lapse.
“I have asked that council officials look at ideas such as environmental initiatives, community engagement projects, and virtual festivals.
“If we fail to organise Halloween activities throughout the Council region, there is a chance that the anti-social behaviour once associated with it will return.
“Our Council must show leadership in relation to this issue. We must work together to ensure that we continue with our Halloween and Christmas programmes whilst balancing them with the ongoing public health concerns.
“I believe that this is very much possible.”
