Gregory Campbell.
Gregory Campbell is refusing to apologise for mocking the Irish language during an Assembly debate.
The East Derry DUP MP used the phrase “curry my yoghurt” in reference to Sinn Fein MLAs stating “go raibh maith agat” (thank you) during Stormont debates.
Sinn Fein and the SDLP have hit out at Mr Campbell, accusing him of bigotry.
Rosie McCorley, Sinn Fein’s Irish language spokesperson, said Mr Campbell’s behaviour was “completely unfitting” for an elected representative.
She added: “If Gregory Campbell had have treated any other national language like this he would rightly have been accused of racism from all sides of this house.
“Unfortunately, this is nothing new from the DUP who have blocked the development on an Irish language act, and whose representatives have a long history of insults to the Irish speaking community.
“While this might be funny in Gregory’s little closed world, it is hugely insulting to all of those who promote the huge benefits of endorsing and enhancing bilingualism in our society especially in our children.”
Dominic Bradley, the SDLP spokesperson on the Irish language, described Mr Campbell’s actions as “disgraceful.”
He added: “The main point which Mr Campbell succeeded in making was that of his own narrow and bigoted attitude towards the Irish Language.
“We had something similar in the past from Sammy Wilson, but even Mr Wilson has grown up since then. Mr Campbell also needs to do some growing up.”
He concluded: “The SDLP will be raising the issue with the Office of the Speaker and will be demanding that Mr Campbell comes before the house to apologise for his disrespectful remarks.”
Tags:
