Banner Removed by Police in Moygashel Play Park
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has removed a banner that was attached to the fence of a play park in Moygashel, County Tyrone. The banner had been displayed since 29 May and was previously classified by the PSNI as a hate incident.
In a statement issued on Friday, the PSNI confirmed the banner's removal and indicated that the placement of the banner is now being investigated as a criminal offence. Enquiries into the matter are ongoing.
Local Councillor Describes Banner Content and Community Impact
The banner was described by Mid Ulster SDLP Councillor Malachy Quinn as showing on one side "a typical play park picture" and on the other side "a visual of bearded men that were obviously meant to be Muslims, behind a barrier."
Speaking on The Nolan Show, Councillor Quinn characterized the banner as having "racist undertones" and stated it was unexpected to see such imagery in 2026 Dungannon.
"It's the latest in a long string of these unsavoury visuals that have popped up in the area over the last couple of years.
You’ll remember the bonfire from last year or the sign that said 'No illegal immigrants for the next mile,'" he added.
Quinn emphasized that the display was intended "to send out an intimidating message to people who are a different skin colour or a different faith, saying they aren't welcome in the area."
He highlighted that Dungannon is "one of the biggest multicultural towns you will find in the North," and described the presence of such a message for nearly a week as "unacceptable."
Police Response and Community Concerns
While acknowledging the legal complexities the police face before removing such materials, Quinn stressed that "police do need to investigate quicker... because it's not just about the banner that's been put up, it's about the fear that it's putting into local people."
He also noted the importance of protecting freedom of speech but insisted that any message crossing into hate speech "has to be challenged right away."
Appeal to the Community
Addressing those who may feel targeted by the banner, Quinn urged them "not to take heed of a small bunch of neanderthals who are putting messages like this up."
He further stated that those responsible for erecting the sign do not represent the entire community, affirming,
"I know people in Moygashel who are not happy with that sign."
