West Belfast Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Fra McCann statement on lower Falls issues

Published: 28 January, 2010

Lower Falls Sinn Fein Councillor Fra McCann MLA has commended the staff, management and users of Conway Mill for their efforts in bringing to fruition the newly refurbished Conway Street complex.

Mr McCann said:

"Conway Mill was the focus of a vicious and sustained British Government and NIO campaign which began in the 1980's and was supported by the SDLP at the time.

"The community facilities in the centre had to battle to stay in existence. "Funding was denied on many occasions for vital services in the complex, but the determination of those involved in the Mill shone through and it is they who deserve the praise and credit for the new facility.

"They should be very proud of what they have achieved.

"Conway Mill was made a flagship project of the West Belfast Task force which Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams has championed together with the local partnership board and community and business leaders.

"The breakthrough against political vetting of Conway Mill has only been acheived by that concerted campaign over the last three decades.

Mr McCann also took the opportunity to raise the campaign to have Ross Road flats demolished, given that the SDLP Minister responsible, Margaret Ritchie, was in attendance at the opening of the Conway Mill complex which is only yards from the Ross Road flats.

"The DSD Minister has failed the people of Ross Road and the lower Falls with her attitude to the Ross Road flats demolition campaign.

"Falls Residents Association are here today again protesting at Minister Ritchie's failure to do what is necessary on this important issue.

"Bap McGreevy was murdered in these flats and there is continual anti-social behaviour in the flats and surrounding area.

"The layout of the area and of the flats is a major factor in this, but Margaret Ritchie refuses to acknowledge this.

"Maybe Margaret Ritchie should come and live in Ross Road flats for a couple of weeks and experience for herself what people who live here have to endure.

"These people deserve good housing where they can feel safe in their homes.

"Just as the people of this area have campaigned effectively on Conway Mill, so we will campaign on Ross Road flats.

"Margaret Ritchie should act now, do the right thing and demolish these flats."