Ford Calls For Condemnation Of Flag Violence

Alliance Party Leader David Ford has called on the Assembly to show it is united in its opposition to violence over the union flag vote at City Hall.

The call follows an escalation of attacks on Alliance offices and representatives.

He said: "The Alliance Party has been subjected to continued threats and intimidation after a democratic decision was made at Belfast City Council on Monday night.

"We have witnessed threats made against our Councillors, with the home of two hard working and dedicated North Down Councillors attacked. All parties must come together to show that this behaviour will not be tolerated."

"I am calling for the full support of all Assembly members for our motion recognising the legitimate decision of Belfast City Council, condemning the violence that has spilled onto our streets, expressing sympathy to all who have been targeted and that any further protests should be peaceful, orderly and organised in accordance with the law."

Attacks and violent protests followed a vote by Belfast councillors on Monday night in favour of removing the union flag from City Hall and flying it only on 17 designated days.

Unionists have accused Alliance, Sinn Féin and the SDLP of attacking their cultural identity.

The office of Employment and Learning Minister Stephen Farry has been targeted by arsonists in Bangor, Co Down, while a paint bomb was thrown at the house of a married councillor couple in the same seaside town.

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson’s office was attacked and burnt in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, on Wednesday night.

Four police officers were injured after missiles were thrown.

North Down Alliance MLA, Stephen Farry, said: "I can confirm that there was an attempted arson attack on my constituency office in Bangor on Wednesday evening.

"Petrol or some other accelerant was poured over my shutters by a number of people. Fortunately, they were interrupted by a passing police patrol and fled the scene.

"I am grateful to both the police and the fire and rescue service for their assistance."

(IT/GK)