SDLP meet Security Minister over attacks

A senior SDLP delegation has met the Security Minister Jane Kennedy to discuss ongoing sectarian attacks throughout the province.

John Dallat, (MLA East Derry), Newtownabbey councillor Noreen McClelland, and Danny O’Connor (MLA East Antrim) headed up a team to meet the minister on Tuesday afternoon at Castle Buildings.

Speaking before the meeting Danny O’Connor said there was a campaign of intimidation against nationalists in Larne, which he believed, needed to be addressed by Ms Kennedy.

He added: “We intend to discuss with her ongoing paramilitary activity in Larne, particularly attacks on vulnerable homes, intimidation and the chill factor created by paramilitary murals and flags.”

The need for financial assistance for people whose homes are vulnerable to sectarian attack will also be discussed.

Currently, only those living in interface areas are entitled to a £1,500 grant to protect their homes.

However Mr O'Connor said he wanted to see that financial aid extended to those in vulnerable homes in non-interface areas.

“In towns such as Larne or Coleraine or Ballymena or wherever, the reality is because you have mixed communities you have multiple interfaces,” he said.

Meanwhile Councillor McClelland said she would be raising the issue of recent defamation and destruction of graves in Carnmoney Cemetery. She added: “The SDLP is very concerned at the campaign of wanton destruction taking place ever more regularly in Carnmoney Cemetery.

“The intimidation of innocent families through the desecration of a loved ones grave is not only an appallingly cowardly act but it also highlights the mentality of the perpetrators. I will be seeking assurances from the Security Minister that this matter gets the attention it undoubtedly deserves.”

(AMcE)