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Tue 16th March
SDLP South Belfast MP Dr Alasdair McDonnell said: "The actions of a handful of predominantly non-students last St Patrick's Day was an absolute disgrace and seriously damaged the relationship between long-term residents and students and negatively impacted on wider community relations in the Holyland area.
"A good deal of positive work has been undertaken particularly by the student unions and universities whose students live in the Holyland. They must be commended for this work.
"Having spoken with students and university representatives, I am hopeful that this year, young people will celebrate the holiday in a sensible and mature fashion".
SDLP South Belfast MLA Conall McDevitt said that he wants to ensure that the day passes off without any trouble and that all residents in the Holyland area are able to partake in St Patrick's Day celebrations.
He said: "It is essential that everyone can enjoy the holiday in peace this year.
“Given the disrepute that was quite unfairly put on the whole of the student body last year as a result of the actions of a few troublemakers, I would urge those students resident in the area to make avail of the organised entertainment which is being put on by the unions so as to ensure that everyone can enjoy the holiday.
“An inter-agency group has been working tirelessly throughout the year to ensure that we do not see a repeat of last year’s trouble and I am satisfied that everything is being done to ensure that this years celebrations recognise Ireland.
“Some of the more long-term objectives will inevitably take time as we seek to deal with the cultural issues of a predominantly student area and the implications of this on long-term residences.
“However I am confident that the efforts of the inter-agency groups, along with the co-operation of the students will ensure that the day passes off without incident and will permit all to enjoy the festivities.”
SDLP Lower Ormeau Councillor Pat McCarthy said: "St Patrick's day celebrations should be a peaceful and enjoyable day for all. I hope there is no repeat of the scenes of last year and would like to invite students to join the rest of the city in the Council's festive parade and concert in the city centre".
Email
a.mcdonnell@sdlp.ie
Tel 028 9024 2474
Tel 028 90 42 1837
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