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The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland has condemned arson attacks
on two Orange Halls in County Armagh during the night.
Carrickawillen Orange Hall, near Darkley, was destroyed by
fire and there was also an attempt to break into Cladybeg
Orange Hall near Newtownhamilton. A fire was started at the
rear of the hall but burnt itself out, causing minimal damage.
And the Orange Order has revealed that there was an attempt
to burn Newcastle Orange Hall 12 days ago. Minor damage was
caused on that occasion.
A statement from Grand Lodge condemned the attacks as attempts
to create community tension.
"We would appeal for calm from all our members and our
supporters. The way to deal with these attacks is to work
with the police and help them find the culprits.
"There must be people in the area who have valuable
information about who is carrying out these attacks on our
culture. Now is the time for all right-thinking people to
condemn the attacks and pass on any information they have
to the police."
The latest incidents bring to 298, the number of arson attacks
on Orange Halls since 1971. Seven halls have been targetted
by arsonists this year.
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