Those responsible for vandalising a bus shelter – decorated in orange and white in Maghery – with sectarian graffiti have been branded “pathetic thugs”.
The bus shelter, on the Clonmakate Road, had been decorated in support of Armagh’s All-Ireland bid this weekend.
However, the structure has been daubed in black spray paint.
“It is outrageous and unacceptable that this sectarian graffiti has appeared in Maghery overnight,” said Upper Bann Alliance MLA, Eoin Tennyson.
“People from across our community are getting behind Armagh ahead of Sunday’s final, and spirits will not be dampened by pathetic thugs.
“I will be raising this matter with the PSNI requesting it be investigated urgently and for the offensive graffiti to be removed.”
It comes in a week where vandals also defaced a wooden display by the Madden GAA club in support of two senior players who have been key to Armagh’s All-Ireland journey.
The Madden finger-post was put up to wish the Raparee’s own, Niall Grimley and Darran McMullan, as well as the whole of Kieran McGeeney’s Armagh squad, “good luck” as they aim to win only their second All-Ireland title.
But slogans and images of ‘No Surrender’ have been daubed across them.
Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan said: “Absolutely disgraceful behaviour out at the finger-post in Madden and Ferla, Ballymacnab, the fact that the signs wishing Madden players all the best in the All-Ireland final have been defaced with sectarian language.
“People all over the county are embracing this wonderful opportunity to celebrate our football stars and the massive effort they have put in to get into their first All-Ireland final in 21 years.
“Sectarianism has no place within our community.
“The people of Madden are proud of their GAA heritage and we wish Niall Grimley & Darragh McMullan and all the players and management the very best for the weekend!”
