Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement by TUV vice chairman and Causeway councillor Allister Kyle:
“It is deeply disappointing to learn that a memorial stone, laid in honour of those young men from our shores who served in the 36th Ulster Division, has been stolen — an act of malice carried out by individuals styling themselves as “Republican Youth.”
“The sacrifice made in the First World War was not the preserve of Protestant or Unionists alone — many Catholic Nationalists also answered the call and gave their lives in that great conflict, particularly in the 16th Irish Division which drew many of its soldiers from Redmond’s Nationalist Volunteers which fought alongside those commemorated by the memorial stone at Messines in June 1917.
“This memorial was a modest tribute, placed respectfully by Killowen Lodge on its own private grounds. It posed no threat, no provocation, and no reason for offence.
“Basic decency would demand that respect be shown to those who paid the ultimate price — regardless of the political lens through which you view the past.
“I would urge anyone with information about this act of desecration to come forward, either to the PSNI or, if they feel more comfortable, to contact me directly in confidence. I will ensure the information is passed on.
“Those behind this disgraceful act may have enjoyed a momentary thrill by trying to wound a community’s memory — but all they have truly done is expose their own narrow-mindedness.
“I have no doubt that the memorial will be restored. And when it is, it will stand all the taller — as a lasting reminder that some gave their all, while others can only lash out in petty vandalism.”