07/08/2013

Ford Condemns Lord Mayor Attack

Justice Minister David Ford has condemned an attack by loyalist protestors on Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir.

The Mayor was attending the opening of a new park in the Woodvale area of Belfast, near the Shankhill Road, but had to abandon the appointment after a crowd of protestors began attacking Cllr Ó Muilleoir and a group of police officers.

Tensions have been high over the past months, following the Parades Commission's decision to only allow the Orange Order to march through a predominantly Catholic area of north Belfast once on 12 July.

David Ford said: "I wholeheartedly condemn the attack on the Lord Mayor today. As Lord Mayor of Belfast, Máirtín was carrying out his civic duty on behalf of all the citizens of the city at what was supposed to be a very positive event for the Woodvale area. The event, which would have marked the official opening of the park, after significant investment, had to be abandoned and unfortunately it is now making the news for all the wrong reasons.

"I understand that nine police officers were also injured in what were disgusting scenes by a large unruly crowd. Police officers were punched, kicked and knocked to the ground as they policed a community event. I do hope they make a full recovery soon. The police will be investigating this incident with a view to identifying those responsible and bringing them before the courts."

(IT/MH)

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