Unionists trigger a ‘call-in’ over dual language signs

At the most recent meeting, Council Chief Executive Alison McCullagh advised members: “A valid call-in has been lodged in relation to the decision. This requires a legal opinion which has been sought and counsel has been instructed.

“I expect to have that for consideration at the April council meeting.”

She added: “Until council determines it’s position around the call-in, the current policy position remains in place.”

Sinn Fein Group Leader Councillor Barry McElduff described the move to challenge the motion passed last month as regressive adding: “Language rights delayed, are language rights denied.”

Both Ulster Unionist and Democratic Unionists parties on Fermanagh and Omagh District Council activated the ‘call-in’ procedure after a majority vote supported the original Sinn Fein motion to change the policy on bilingual signage.

The Sinn Fein motion means the consultation process would be initiated after an expression of interest for bilingual signage by one resident or councillor; and 15 per cent or more of residents responding positively would mean bilingual signs could be erected.

The Ulster Unionists tabled an amendment for a consultation to be triggered by residents only and for the consultation to require 50 per cent plus one resident in support before signs were approved.

It was contended the issue: “Should not be seen as political, although it is in many areas. Signage should be reflective of residents without political interference.”

Amendment prosposer Councillor John McClaughry argued 50 per plus one was democratic and reflective of the residents wishes but the amendment fell after only the Ulster Unionists voted for it.

Speaking on the original motion requiring a threshold of only 15% of residents, Democratic Unionist Councillor Deborah Erskine said she believed it to be: “Unbalanced and will set a precedent for Irish language signs in mixed areas. People will regard it as cultural branding.

“The minority cannot outweigh a majority. Irish language should not be forced, this will destroy community relations and bring division.

“This could trigger an action solely at the whim of a councillor and 15 per cent is not a majority. It’s not democratic.”