RIRA graffiti was painted outside Rathfriland Orange Hall on Thursday night/Friday morning.

Local TUV Councillor Stephen Herron has criticized those responsible, but says he is not surprised.

"It is no surprise that there are those in our midst who support the ongoing activities of republican terrorists. Having daubed their mark elsewhere in the town last week, these same people have now turned their attentions to the local Orange Hall in order to demonstrate their support for the individuals that murdered two soldiers at Masserene barracks and a police officer in Lurgan earlier this year. Republican attacks on Orange Halls are commonplace, and no doubt the local element are trying to emulate the deeds of their cohorts in places like Rasharkin.

“I would call on any member of the public who has information on those responsible to make it known, before anything more sinister takes place.”