'Limited Justification' To Remove Port Workers

An investigation has found "limited justification" in the decision to remove workers from the Belfast and Larne ports.

Staff undertaking custom checks were withdrawn from the ports after their safety was questioned due to nearby threats plastered on walls.

Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan has spoke out about the "damning findings" of the Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs committee investigation. The North Antrim MLA said: "It's clear that workers should not have been removed from Larne Port following the damning findings of the AERA committee investigation released today.

"It's our view, based on this investigation, that the decision to remove these workers was political rather than in the best interests of staff. 

"The safety of workers must always be paramount, this decision only served to create unnecessary worry and hurt for staff and their families. 

"All workers should be able to work free from intimidation, harassment and threats. 

"The hysteria being whipped up by unionist political leaders cannot be allowed to block progress, trade across these islands and the day-to-day workings of government in the north."