Outrage as loyalists set to burn effigies of migrants this year instead of Catholics

Paul McRingo | Northern Correspondent

A boat containing more than a dozen life-sized mannequins wearing life jackets on top of a bonfire in Moygashel, Co Tyrone has brought widespread outrage and condemnation.

Amnesty International director Brian Shaftesbury has described the bonfire as a “vile, dehumanising act that fuels hatred and racism”.

“Burning effigies of Catholics is one thing but we draw the line at migrants.” he said.

“Amnesty International urges the authorities to ensure the immediate removal of the boat and the reinstallation of Irish flags and effigies of Nationalist politicians. Didn’t they have one of the Pope one year? That was cute.”

Local Unionist politician Samuel Winterbottom said he doesn’t see what the problem is.

“This is simply a case of artistic freedom of expression. Some people like to create sculptures or write music or paint a pretty landscape. We like to burn people. Frankly I don’t see any difference.”

At the time of writing the migrant boat remains on top of the bonfire.