Councillor Changes Stance on Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Plaque
A nationalist councillor who initially advocated for the reinstatement of a plaque removed due to its reference to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has now expressed support for the original decision to remove it, according to his party.
Pat Catney, a member of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), had previously informed officials at Lisburn and Castlereagh Council that it was important not to "rewrite that historical record".
The plaque in Lisburn was taken down before Christmas from beneath a tree planted by Mountbatten-Windsor, following emerging details about the former prince's association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
The SDLP stated that Catney had since "clarified his position" and now "believes the plaque should be permanently removed".
The plaque had stated that the tree was "planted by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York" in 2009 "to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Lisburn".
In February, Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office but was subsequently released under investigation. He denies any wrongdoing.
Councillors Discuss Recognition of Yew Tree Amid Sensitivities
Emails obtained by NI reveal that officials encouraged councillors to "make suggestions as to how we could recognise the significance of the Yew tree planted whilst noting the particular sensitivities".
Catney, a former assembly member (MLA), responded:
"In my view, the original plaque should be reinstated as it was first presented."
He added that the event "formed part of the city's history at that time" and stated:
"I believe it is important that we do not attempt to alter or rewrite that historical record after the fact."
Concerns Raised Over Honouring Former Prince
Alliance Party councillor Claire Kemp requested Catney to explain his "rationale".
She noted that many residents had expressed "deep unease at anything honouring Andrew Mountbatten".
Kemp further commented:
"Lisburn and Castlereagh has a long and proud history with the Royal family but it was entirely correct for the council to remove the plaque mentioning Andrew Mountbatten."
Party and Council Statements
Both Catney and the SDLP were approached for comment.
An SDLP spokesperson stated:
"Councillor Catney has already clarified his position to council and has stated that he believes the plaque should be permanently removed.
The SDLP has been clear from the outset of the Epstein scandal that tributes to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor are inappropriate, and we were among the first to call for their removal.
Our thoughts are with all the victims of Epstein and those associated with him."
A representative from Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council said:
"The mount has been removed as part of a site tidy up and there are no intentions to replace at this time."
