The civic buildings in Fermanagh and Omagh District Council are to be illuminated in support of Ukrainian people and a statement condemning the actions of Russia and President Vladimir Putin is to be released.

Ulster Unionists Councillor Matthew Bell told members: “We’ve watched as Russia has marched into the Ukraine, bombing civilian and military targets. Communities have shown support for the Ukrainian people, such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the London Eye being lit up In blue and yellow.”

He pointed out Belfast City Council’s plans to light up the City Hall and proposed: “It’s time for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to follow suit. At the soonest, most possible time, the Strule Art’s Centre and Enniskillen Castle should be lit up blue and yellow to show we too support the Ukrainian people in this time of crisis.”

He further proposed the council release a statement condemning of Russian and President Putin.

Party colleague Councillor Robert Irvine seconded both proposals.

Sinn Fein’s Councillor Tommy Maguire enquired if the facility exists to light the buildings in two colours and when Chief Executive Alison McCullagh advised only one colour can be used, and suggested one building could be yellow and the other blue.

While Councillor Bell was content with this, he suggested both buildings were illuminated in blue which has priority in the Ukrainian colours.

This was agreed.

Councillor Maguire added: “Sinn Fein has condemned the brutal attack on the Ukrainian sovereignty and sent solidarity to the people. We also support the sanctions to ensure a high price will be applied to the Russian regime. We call for an end to the aggression and call fir dialogue, restoration of peace and respect for international law.”