Tory MP meets Rasharkin hate victim

The visit commenced with a tour of Wright Bus and a discussion with senior management at the successful Ballymena-based company. The Minister then travelled to Rasharkin to meet with local resident Mr Chris McCaughan whose family has been subjected to sectarian attacks and intimidation over many years.

The Minister heard how the McCaughan family has been subjected to a campaign of sectarian abuse the latest just a few weeks ago when the family home was attacked.

Mr Storey then took the Minister to see the local Orange Hall and the general layout of the village.

He took the opportunity to give the Minister an overview of the many of the issues that face the local Protestant community.

The Minister then travelled to Ballymoney Police Station where, along with Mervyn Storey, they had a meeting with senior police chiefs including Nigel Godard District Commander for H District.

The meeting was an opportunity for an update on a number of issues including parades.

Commenting after the visit Mr Storey, said: “I was delighted when Mr Swire accepted my invitation to visit North Antrim and see at first hand many of the issues including problems with sectarian attacks on the Protestant community in Rasharkin.

“I was pleased that the Minister took a very keen interest in our visit to Wright Bus and was able to see at first hand the work going on at one of Northern Ireland most successful companies.

“It is imperative that our national Government is kept informed of what is going on in Northern Ireland and that we have a close working relationship with Ministers in the NIO.

“I intend this to be one of many visits by government ministers to North Antrim.”