Council Statement on John Mitchel Statue and John Mitchel Place

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Councillors’ Equality and Good Relations Reference Group met on Friday 19 June 2020.  The Councillors’ Equality and Good Relations Reference Group is a facilitated discussion space which is the Council’s vehicle for considering and discussing politically sensitive and contentious issues to reach a common understanding, agreement and actions.  Following constructive discussion between Elected Members on the John Mitchel statue and John Mitchel Place, it was agreed that officers proceed to clarify responsibility for the John Mitchel statue, develop options for an education programme, identify the origins of John Mitchel Place and give consideration as to other potential issues in relation to slavery within the Council area.