Bethlehem's mayor approves process of twinning city with Derry

Derry City and Strabane District Council has received correspondence from the Mayor of Bethlehem City Council about the twinning of the two cities.

At Tuesday’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee meeting, Rachel Craig, the Strategic Business Manager, sought approval “to engage with officials from Bethlehem City Council to agree an action plan and map a way forward in twinning with the city.”

Former Mayor Patrica Logue sent a letter to the Mayor of Bethlehem in March proposing the move after SDLP councillor Catherine McDaid suggested the motion in December last year to “show our support to the people of the region and to develop our relationship with Bethlehem.”

Bethlehem City Council approved the signing of a twinning agreement by both councils on April 6, and their mayor, Hannah Hanania, responded with a letter to confirm their decision.

Councillor McDaid spoke of her delight in the meeting about receiving the letter. 

She said: “We have an opportunity for this to be a very positive thing for people of all ages, and from all the political spectrum, to engage with a city of history and culture, just like ours.”

People Before Profit councillor Shaun Harkin was pleased about the response to the “excellent response.”

He said: “This can be very positive for our district and Bethlehem.

“Right now, Jerusalum and the West Bank are facing unprecedented levels of violence.

“I would urge us to do as much as we can to slow down the violence.”

And Independent councillor Gary Donnelly added: “This is very positive and should be seen as a proud and historic moment.”

Feature Image: Lux Moundi