SDLP Condemns Attack On Firefighters In North Belfast

An SDLP Councillor has described an attack on firefighters in north Belfast as "disgraceful".

A number of youths threw bricks and stones at the crew in the Ballysillan area just after 8pm on Sunday.

A firefighter is being treated in hospital after receiving injuries to his foot and leg.

SDLP North Belfast Councillor Nichola Mallon said those behind the attack should be ashamed of themselves.

Councillor Mallon said: "There are no braver public servants than our emergency services personnel who routinely put their lives at risk to protect the safety and security of all our communities.

"Our firefighters in particular put themselves in harm's way to protect the lives and property of people every day.

"It's a disgrace that firefighters have come to expect attacks as a regular occurrence. The latest attack in Ballysillan follows an incident in the New Lodge area last month.

"People in North Belfast don't want this kind of thuggish behaviour on our streets. I would appeal to anyone with influence to use it to ensure that this kind of vicious attack becomes a thing of the past. I would also urge anyone with information to contact the police as soon as possible."

(CD/JP)