Finlay: Action over sectarian attacks

In a letter to Mr Matt Baggot Chief Constable of PSNI and Mr Shaun Woodward MP Secretary of State for NI, the DUP councillor highlighted the ‘continual rise in sectarian attacks on Orange Halls’ and ‘Protestant homes’.

His letter explained: “I feel as a public representative for the Bann Valley Electoral area within Ballymoney Borough Council in North Antrim to highlight what continues to be a real problem with vandals, and the thugs of our society.

“Last year we seen a continual rise in sectarian attacks on Orange Halls as well as Protestant homes in this area. These occurred in Rasharkin, Drumcon, Dunloy, Ballymaconnelly, Granagh, Drumlee and Tullaghans. with Rasharkin having attacks almost weekly. We have now entered 2010 and many of the same halls are still being attacked. In these incidents attacks are made with graffiti, use of diggers, stones and paint bombs. I know that many Protestants in their home are afraid and those who have lived in relative peace feel there lives are being disturbed, by minority factions.

“On behalf of my constituents I want to have these issues addressed and not left by the wayside. Please let me know what action is to be taken to stamp out such attacks. I also feel to give the public some confidence that all is being done, it would be beneficial if you could join with me and visit the people affected in these areas. I look forward to hearing from you.”