Unionists again turn down Dungiven leisure centre

Sinn Féin Councillor Sean McGlinchey has said it is “extremely disappointing” that unionists again voted to oppose the development of a new leisure facility in Co Derry town of Dungiven.

The decision was taken at last night’s meeting of the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council despite the fact the money for the facility has been secured from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and the business case has been passed by the Department of Finance and Personnel.

Cllr McGlinchey said: "Clearly there are still those within unionism who are more concerned with narrow and petty sectarianism than providing facilities for those they were elected to serve.

"It is encouraging that at least some unionists were able to see beyond the narrow viewpoint of others and support the development of a much needed sporting facility which would benefit everyone in the entire local community.

"We will continue to work and campaign with the local community towards the delivery of this sporting facility.”

"The unionists who opposed this vital community facility, however, need to get real and realise that the days of discrimination are over and are not coming back."

Photo shows a recent protest by Dungiven residents in support of a leisure for the town.