Petition calls for street named after Co. Derry republican John Mitchel to be renamed

Padraig Mac Cionnaith started the petition to have John Mitchel Place in Newry rebranded.

Mr. Mac Cionnaith said he objected to the Dungiven-born Young Irelander's support for slavery when he moved to the United States towards the end of his life.

"John Mitchel was a proud racist and pro-slavery.

"The city has birthed many more dignified individuals in its history. Let’s honour Pat Jennings, or even Luvbug instead (open to suggestions for a new name).

"Is a street named after a racist really the reflection we want shone on Newry in this modern, multicultural society?" he asked.

Mitchel was born at the Manse in Camnish, near Dungiven, on November 3, 1815,

His father was Rev. John Mitchel, a Unitarian clergyman, and his mother was a Mary Haslett.

The family moved to Newry when Mitchel was eight.

A lawyer and journalist he was found guilty of printing seditious libels and treason at the time of the failed Young Irelander rebellion of 1848.

He was sentenced to 14 years' transportation to Van Diemen's Land.

Mitchel escaped to the United States where he openly espoused racist and pro-slavery views.