Mayor Elisha McCallion
COUNCILLOR Elisha McCallions, the Sinn Fein Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council will not be attending today’s Remembrance Sunday parade.
The parade and wreath laying ceremony takes place at the city’s War Memorial in the Diamond.
Earlier this week, Cllr McCallion said she had met with the British Legion organisers to discuss what she described as “inclusive ways of commemorating our shared history in a more inclusive manner.
She added: “Our discussions were cordial and fruitful. I explained my reason for my decision to respectfully decline the Legion’s invitation to attend the Cenotaph this Sunday.
“I welcome the Legion’s understanding and acceptance of my decision.
“I will delegate attendance at the War Memorial in the Diamond to Deputy Mayor, Thomas Kerrigan.
“Following the practice of former Sinn Féin Mayors, I intend to hold a day of reflection in early December which will commemorate all those from the Council District who died as a result of all conflict.
“I believe that delegating this event to the Deputy Mayor is the most respectful manner in which to proceed.”
Earlier this week, Councillor incurred the wrath of Sinn Fein and the LGBT community when he said homosexuality was a sin”.
Cllr McCallion’s stance on Remembrance Sunday is poles apart from the SDLP in the city.
SDLP leadership candidate Colum Eastwood, who leads the party on the counci, called on Catholics to attend today’s 11 am event.
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