Unionist leaders condemn attack on Mossley Orange Hall

Mossley Orange Hall and the broken flag pole.

Political representatives have strongly condemned an attack on Mossley Orange Hall after its flagpole was destroyed and an Orange Standard flag stolen during the early hours of Friday morning, August 15.

South Antrim Ulster Unionist MP Robin Swann described the incident as “incredibly disappointing” and urged anyone with information to contact police.

He said:

“The destruction of the flagpole and theft of the Orange Standard flag at Mossley Orange Hall is incredibly disappointing to see and should be condemned by all.

“This vandalism, carried out last night, is completely unacceptable and I urge anyone with information to speak to PSNI. My colleagues have been in contact with the Lodge following this attack on their hall, and I will be offering to give my support however I can.”

Antrim and Newtownabbey Ulster Unionist Councillor Robert Foster also condemned the incident, describing it as a hate crime.

He said:

“I totally condemn this hate crime. There has never been an incident at this Hall before. The Hall is a resource used by the whole local community, and recently the District and Lodge have held proactive outreach nights exploring the origins and history of the Orange Order as part of their work to strengthen community relations.

“The lodge will have my full support and assistance in replacing the flagpole and flag as quickly as possible.”

The Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) also voiced anger, warning that the incident was part of a wider campaign targeting the loyalist community across Ballyclare and Newtownabbey.

John Hunter, TUV spokesman for North Belfast, said:

“This summer we have witnessed an ongoing campaign of theft and vandalism targeting the loyalist community in Ballyclare and Newtownabbey. Flags have been repeatedly stolen from streets — a deliberate attempt to strip the community of their identity.

“Last night, Mossley Orange Hall became the latest target. A flag was stolen from the premises and the flagpole damaged in what was clearly a deliberate act of disrespect and provocation. This comes against a wider backdrop of sectarian graffiti appearing across Glengormley in recent weeks, further underlining that there is a coordinated and sustained campaign being waged against the loyalist community in this area.

”These incidents have been reported to the PSNI, but the fact remains that they have largely taken place under the radar, without any significant media attention. Contrast that with the treatment of our community — where every alleged, or even imagined, misdeed by loyalists receives wall-to-wall coverage from some outlets — and you see the clear double standard at work.

“The loyalist community deserves the same recognition, protection, and respect as any other. Attacks on our culture, our property, and our identity should be treated with the seriousness they deserve, both by the police and by the media.”

Orange Order members from the Mossley club have vowed to replace the flag pole and say they have received offers of support and donations from across the community.