SDLP Derry and Strabane Councillor Brian Tierney has urged unionist Councillors to rejoin a working group aimed at reducing tensions and managing bonfires in the district.
Cllr Tierney was speaking after both DUP and UUP councillors refused to nominate any of their Councillors to the Council member led Bonfire Working Group.
Said Cllr Tierney: “The council’s bonfire working group is a cross-party effort to help navigate our community through challenging circumstances and avoid difficult summers.
!It has been an important way for parties to work through our issues and work together in the best interests of the people of Derry.
“I was shocked when the DUP and UUP refused to nominate representatives to the group.
!I have been the SDLP member of the working group since it was created and while we have had challenges over the years, I have always found the opportunity to talk through difficult situations incredibly useful and I have no doubt that the work has contributed to calm in the city.
“I have contacted the DUP and UUP group leaders and talked to them privately to ask them to reconsider and re-engage with the process.
“The only way we will be able to guide our community through this process is by talking and working together,” added the former mayor.
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