TUV and UUP condemn “senseless” attack on Dunloy Orange Hall

The Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) has issued a strong condemnation following yet another attack on Dunloy Orange Hall in North Antrim, describing it as a “sobering reminder of deep-seated intolerance” towards the Orange Order and Protestant culture.

The incident, which has caused widespread dismay, marks another chapter in the ongoing targeting of the Loyal Orange Lodge (LOL) 496’s premises in the village.

In a statement, North Antrim MP Jim Allister denounced the vandalism, asserting:

“The latest attack on Dunloy Orange Hall is yet another sobering reminder of the deep-seated intolerance in some quarters of society towards all things Orange and Loyalist.

“Let us be clear — this is not merely damage to a building, but an attack on the entire Protestant minority in the area and on their cultural expression.”

Allister urged anyone with information to assist the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in bringing the perpetrators to justice, adding:

“I would strongly urge anyone with information to come forward to the PSNI so that those responsible can be held to account.”

The attack has been particularly disheartening for the Dunloy community, coming shortly after refurbishment work was completed over the summer to enhance the hall’s exterior, making it more inviting for all residents.

TUV councillor Jonathan McAuley echoed Allister’s sentiments, labelling the act as “despicable” and an affront to community harmony.

“This despicable act is made all the more offensive given the efforts of the Orange brethren to ensure the Hall’s exterior was kept in a presentable condition for the whole community,” McAuley said.

“The perpetrators have not just committed a crime, they have shown contempt for community respect and decency. The PSNI must treat this attack with the utmost seriousness.”

Joining the chorus of condemnation, Ulster Unionist Party North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows described the vandalism as a “senseless and divisive act” that undermines the shared community of Dunloy.

In a statement, Burrows said:

“I am deeply saddened and angered to learn of yet another attack on Dunloy Orange Hall. This mindless vandalism is an attack not just on a building, but on the very fabric of the shared community in Dunloy.

“Those responsible offer nothing but division and damage, and their actions are roundly rejected by the vast majority of people who want to live in peace and mutual respect.”

He expressed solidarity with LOL 496, noting:

“My thoughts are with the members of LOL 496, who have shown remarkable resilience in the face of such repeated targeting. It is particularly disheartening that this comes after recent efforts to improve the Hall’s exterior, a positive step aimed at benefiting the entire village.”

The Worshipful Master, Officers, and Brethren of Dunloy Union Defenders LOL 496 expressed their “deep regret and disappointment” in a statement, noting that the attack undermines efforts to foster a shared community in Dunloy.

“This most recent incident is yet another example of the repeated and senseless targeting of our property,” the statement read. “It is deeply upsetting that, in a shared community village, such attacks continue to take place.”

The Orange Order emphasised that the vandalism not only targets their institution but also sows division in the wider community.

“An attack on our Hall is not only an attack on our Institution, but also an attack on this area itself, bringing nothing but division and damage to the wider community,” they added.

Despite the setback, LOL 496 remains resolute, declaring, “Despite these repeated attacks, the Worshipful Master, Officers and Brethren of LOL 496 will not be deterred. We remain committed to maintaining our Hall, upholding our traditions, and playing our part in the life of the wider community.”

The incident has been reported to the PSNI, with the lodge appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

The Orange Order was keen to stress that the actions of a few should not reflect on the entire Dunloy community, noting, “We would also stress that the actions of a few individuals should not be seen as a reflection on all the residents of Dunloy. Many within the village have always shown respect and friendship, and we are grateful for that.”

The repeated targeting of Dunloy Orange Hall has reignited discussions about cultural tolerance and community cohesion in Northern Ireland. The hall, a focal point for the Orange Order’s activities in the area, has been subject to multiple attacks in recent years, prompting calls for stronger measures to protect cultural landmarks.

The Orange Order’s statement underscored their commitment to mutual respect, stating:

“We are part of the same community, a place that should be shared by all, and it is only by mutual respect that we can move forward together.”

Local residents and community leaders have expressed solidarity with LOL 496, with the lodge acknowledging the support received. “The Worshipful Master, Officers and Brethren of LOL 496 thank all who have expressed solidarity at this time,” their statement concluded.

As the PSNI investigates, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing communities striving for unity in the face of division. The TUV and the Orange Order have called for a renewed focus on respect and understanding, urging all sides to work towards a shared future in Dunloy.