DUP MLA's Car Is Torched

A prominent DUP MLA has said he does not know who was behind the weekend's arson attack on his car.

However, Ian McCrea caused controversy at the end of June when he said - on Twitter - that he hoped Gaelic football teams in his area lost so there would be no local celebrations.

Mr McCrea found the car in flames outside his home early on Sunday morning, prompting Stormont First Minister and fellow DUP MLA Peter Robinson to "unreservedly" condemned the attack.

"I know those responsible do not speak for their community," he said.

"Regardless of our political views, no one has the right to engage in such criminal and hate-filled behaviour."

His comments came after news that the police are treating the fire as suspected arson and have asked anyone who noticed unusual activity in the area to contact them.

However, the Sinn Fein MLA for Mid Ulster, Martin McGuinness - who is Deputy First Minister - said there was no justification for an attack on a family car.

"Those who carried out this attack are attempting to heighten tensions as we reach the height of the marching season and this action must be condemned," he said.

Also commenting the NI Policing Board Chair Brian Rea has condemned the attack on one of his Board's member's property.

"Attacking someone's property in the middle of the night is a cowardly and reckless act. This type of behaviour is unacceptable and it is fortunate that Ian and his family were not injured."

Alliance Justice Spokesperson Stewart Dickson has also added his voice and said: "This was a despicable incident and I am appalled at news of this. This was an absolutely shameful act. Those seeking to cause instability and damage the progress we have made in building peace must never succeed.

"Those behind this incident must be brought to justice and I appeal to anyone with information on this to contact police immediately," said the MLA.

(BMcC/GK)