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(Issued to Ballymena Times and Ballymena Guardian) |
The Central Committee of the Ulster Bands Association would like to
express their anger and disgust at what was luckily an unsuccessful
attempt to assault two members of a flute band from Ballymena in the early
hours of Saturday morning.
The attempted assault occurred in the Broughshane Road area of Ballymena
as the two members made their way home after attending a Parade in another
town. At shortly after 1 a.m. they were chased by nationalist mob that had
been shouting and singing sectarian slogans.
However as the two band members attempted to escape from what would have
undoubtedly been a vicious attack, one of their pursuers were somehow able
to grab and steal a band jacket, a hat and a flute.
Although subsequently the jacket and hat have been recovered the flute is
still missing. We are appealing for the return of the stolen instrument as
it will cost over £100 to replace.
This time last year the Ulster people were informed that the Good Friday
Agreement would provide a basis for a more peaceful society and a better
tolerance of our culture. However we have only witnessed an alarming
increase in attacks and intolerance against our culture especially the
culture of the Marching Bands.
Luckily the above attempt was not successful but this is a situation that
can no longer be tolerated, as eventually someone will be seriously
injured.
Is it so inconceivable that the mere sight of a Protestant can inspire
such hatred
Regrettably it is again left to the Ulster Bands Association to
unreservedly condemn and highlight these sectarian attacks which are
designed specifically to heighten tensions.
Finally, a complaint has been lodged with the RUC and we call upon them to
defend the rights of the Protestant community in Ballymena against whom
these attacks are directed.
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