A BELFAST City Council committee yesterday narrowly voted to host a civic reception for members of the armed forces returning to Northern Ireland from the Afghanistan and Iraq war zones.
The plan – put before the Strategic Policy and Resources Committee – went through by two votes. Unionists backed the move but it was opposed by Sinn Féin and the SDLP.
The issue will now go before a full meeting of the council for ratification next month, said a council spokeswoman. If the council backs the move the reception would be held after a parade to service at St Anne’s Cathedral which is already planned to take place on Sunday, November 2nd.
Members of all three British armed forces services – army, navy and RAF – returning to the province after tours of duty will take part. The committee chairman urged the SDLP and Sinn Féin members who voted against the reception to reconsider their position.
Councillor Diane Dodds said: “Our brave troops who are fighting to protect the security and safety of the United Kingdom are more than deserving of official recognition.”
Ms Dodds added: “It is sad that some parties represented on the committee voted against this move. Between now and the forthcoming full council meeting at which the decision is to be ratified, I hope they will reconsider their position.”
Former Belfast lord mayor, Ulster Unionist Jim Rodgers, welcomed the committee vote.
Mr Rodgers said: “This is something I have been advocating for a long time, particularly during my time as lord mayor.
“Something that we need to remember is that soldiers from across the community are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan risking life and limb and it is very important that we show our support and respect for them.”
He said nationalists had provided a sour note to the announcement. – (PA)