'Every Single Person In Every Single Household In This Area Needs To Make Their Views Known'

Locals urged to respond to Boundary Commission’s proposals to split Dungiven into different constituencies

- Orla Mullan

SINN Féin say they are prepared to challenge the Boundary Commission's proposals to split Dungiven into different constituencies.

The comments were made by MLA Caoimhe Archibald during a public meeting in the town on Tuesday night.

Dozens of people attended the meeting in St Canice’s Hall to voice their opposition to carve the town and outlying areas into three different constituencies for the Westminster and local assembly elections.

If the proposals get the green light, this would mean Dungiven Main Street would be split down the middle.

The Church of Ireland would be in Mid Ulster while St Patrick’s Catholic Church on the opposite side of the road would be in West Tyrone.

Feeny and Foreglen would also fall under West Tyrone while those living in the Gortnaghey and Burnfoot areas would come under Causeway.

As part of the Commission’s 2018 Review, the number of constituencies in Northern Ireland is being reduced from 18 to 17.

The review process is informed by public consultation and an eight week consultation into the proposals is currently underway.