Sinn Fein Threatened Over DPPs

There has been widespread condemnation of threats issued this week against five Sinn Fein councillors because of the party's support for the District Policing Partnerships, (DPP).

Police visited Glengormley councillor Briege Meehan and four north Belfast councillors to warn them that dissident republicans claimed they would kill the SF councillors if they do not publicly withdraw their support for the DPPs.

She said: "I think it is pathetic that they are trying to threaten those persons trying to do a job for their community.”

Sinn Fein policing spokesman Alex Maskey, who is himself a member of the NI Policing Board, said it was unacceptable that anyone purporting to be republican should threaten other republicans.

He said: "I would encourage those republicans referred to as dissidents to get behind the process and help to advance our republican objectives in a democratic and peaceful manner."

It is understood the four north Belfast councillors are Danny Lavery, Conor Maskey, Margaret McLenaghan and Tierna Cunningham.

The NIO Security Minister Jane Kennedy has also described the threats as intolerable and called on the community to support those participating in the new policing arrangements.

She said: "The actions of those who threaten and intimidate members of District Policing Partnerships in this way are utterly abhorrent.

"I am greatly encouraged by the progress that has been made by District Policing Partnerships across Northern Ireland. They have already shown the very positive contribution that local involvement in policing can make."

The Chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, Professor Sir Desmond Rea has also condemned the recent threats.

Sir Desmond said: “On behalf of the Board, I condemn the threat to a number of Sinn Féin Councillors in north Belfast which has been linked to their support of DPPs.

“Policing in Northern Ireland has moved on and there is no place for those who attempt to discourage political or independent members from playing their full part in the policing of our community.”

(BMcC)