DUP MLA welcomes comments from Catholic Bishop Donal McKeown about theft of poppy wreath in Londonderry

Police have appealed for any information in relation to the theft of a poppy wreath from the cenotaph in the city and the theft of a banner from the Fountain area over the weekend – both of which are being treated as sectarian hate crimes. A 16-year-old has been arrested and bailed in relation to the banner theft.

Bishop of Derry Donal McKeown urged those in "positions of responsibility" to articulate a message of tolerance and respect for others.

Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today programme, he said he was deeply saddened by the recent thefts and vandalism, describing them as acts that "cause offence and benefit no one".

His comments have been welcomed by DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton.

Bishop McKeown said: "I was sad for what it says about us and about Derry.

"There's been a lot of work done over the past number of decades, at political and church level, to ensure that we respect the different traditions and the diversity of traditions that we have in the city."

Bishop McKeown said he had attended the Remembrance ceremony at the Diamond in the city on Sunday morning when the wreaths were laid.

"It's not part of a culture I've grown up with but I think it's important to respect where other people are coming from.”

He compared their significance to the reverence people show for graves.

"It's about remembering a grandfather, uncle, cousin, or somebody who died, even in our own conflict," he said.

DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton MLA welcomed the bishop’s words following what he called the “disgraceful” theft and vandalism.

"His message of respect and tolerance is one that should resonate across our entire community,” he said.

"Remembrance is about honouring those who gave their lives for the freedoms we all enjoy today, freedoms that belong to everyone in this city, regardless of background or tradition.

"The Bishop’s words show leadership, and it is vital that political leaders within nationalism and republicanism in Londonderry show the same courage in standing up for respect for Remembrance, and condemnation of these hate crimes.”