Northern Ireland

DUP criticise city council for withholding funding for family fun day

&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Verdana, &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;; ">The DUP has criticised a decision by Belfast City Council to withhold funding for a family event in Sandy Row.</span>
 The DUP has criticised a decision by Belfast City Council to withhold funding for a family event in Sandy Row.  The DUP has criticised a decision by Belfast City Council to withhold funding for a family event in Sandy Row.

THE DUP has criticised a decision by Belfast City Council to withhold funding for a family event in Sandy Row.

Funding for the fun day is believed to be linked to a local bonfire group, which it is claimed has failed to abide by criteria set out in the council's bonfire management scheme.

South Belfast DUP assembly meber Christopher Stalford said the "event that has had its funding removed takes place in the heart of Sandy Row, a long way from the bonfire".

"It is a genuine family event with face painting, bouncy castles and fun things for the local children to do," he said.

"I have taken my own children to it in the past. It has never caused problems or given anyone anything other than happiness.

"I am at a genuine loss to understand why this decision has been taken. Local people are very saddened and feel desperately let down by the council.

"Many believe the decision was taken as a result of agitation from Sinn Féin around the whole bonfire issue.

"People can have their differences and may not like the Eleventh Night but to stop a group of kids having a street party is downright mean-spirited and nasty."

Belfast City Council said: "Funding is currently being withheld, awaiting further discussion with elected members."