A DUP councillor has described as “disgraceful” attempts to intimidate Royal British Legion (RBL) Poppy Appeal volunteers collecting at Tesco in Newry, after a republican group claimed responsibility for the stall being moved inside the store.
Alderman Gareth Wilson said he had spoken with one of the RBL organisers following reports of online abuse and intimidation linked to social media activity by republican group Saoradh, which criticised the presence of the stall near the supermarket’s entrance.
Councillor Wilson said: “I have spoken with one of the RBL Poppy stall co-ordinators in Newry and relayed both my support for the stall holders who are rightly continuing to collect in the store and also shared the concerns of many people who are disgusted by the online activity of this despicable republican group.
“This type of intimidating behaviour is deeply disgraceful and concerning and I know that the PSNI has been fully informed of the reported incidences.
“The Royal British Legion Poppy sellers do a tremendous job each and every year and enjoy the support of thousands of people. It is absolutely vital that Tesco, a large company in the United Kingdom, continues to ensure free and open access for the RBL in their Newry store given this very worthwhile and important cause.”
However, Saoradh, claimed responsibility for the stall being moved from the supermarket’s entrance to an upstairs location.
In a statement, Saoradh said the move, which saw the stand relocated from the supermarket’s entrance to an upstairs location, came “following direct intervention on behalf of furious members of the public”.
The group said it would continue to oppose what it described as “offensive displays”, claiming the stall remains “a blood-soaked symbol of British imperialism” regardless of its location within the store.
Police have been made aware of the reported online activity surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, Ulster Unionist Councillor David Taylor said the Poppy Appeal, which has been located in Tesco’s Newry for quite a number of years, “always receives strong support from people across the community”.
“Saoradh’s statement on the presence of the poppy stall in the Tesco store and the outlined threat to take action to remove it was extremely sinister in nature and something I have spoken to Police directly about,” he said.
“Their remarks and threats would be condemned by any right minded person.
“The Poppy stall is manned by volunteers each year who give up their own free time to support the Royal British Legion’s appeal to raise funds for veterans, service personnel and their families.
“I welcome the fact that Tesco’s have not bowed to any threats or pressure from republicans and that the stall remains in a very prominent position within the store.
“I would encourage the local community in the Newry area to continue their ongoing strong support for the Poppy Appeal and the vital work undertaken by the Royal British Legion.”
