Christian taxi firm forced to close

Ulster Unionist West Belfast councillor Chris McGimpsey has said he is “absolutely appalled” at the forced closure of the Christian taxi firm, Liberty.

The Shankill Road firm, which was run by Pastor Jack McKee, was forced to close over the weekend following attacks on both the business and Pastor McKee’s home last week.

The incident saw Pastor McKee’s car destroyed in a petrol bomb attack and the windows of his home smashed.

In a statement, Mr McGimpsey said Liberty taxis “could have played a valuable role in the community and its closure represents a real blow”.

"This has come on the back of a disgraceful attack on Pastor McKee's home. It is appalling that those who are committed to helping the community can be attacked and intimidated in this way,” Mr McGimpsey said.

"For the quality of life in the Shankill to improve, it is imperative that the criminals responsible are confronted and removed from decent society."

In a statement issued on Saturday, Liberty Taxis said that due to further concerns expressed by the PSNI “and for the sake of our drivers and their families, we the leadership of New Life Fellowship took the decision to close Liberty Taxis”.

"We will continue to promote and practice the Christian message of love and forgiveness and to pray for all who live and work within the Shankill community and our neighbouring communities,” the statement added.

Pastor McKee said he had no doubt that the incident and resulting closure of Liberty was linked to public statements he had made recently.

(MB/GB)