Concern as Foster talks to loyalists

JUSTICE Minister Naomi Long has raised concerns over the DUP meeting with a group representing loyalist paramilitaries to discuss opposition to the Northern Ireland Protocol.

DUP leader Arlene Foster, deputy leader Nigel Dodds and East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson met on Thursday with the Loyalist Communities Council.

The group, which is not illegal, is an umbrella organisation representing the UVF, UDA and Red Hand Commando.

Mrs Foster defended the meeting, saying it was “important that all communities have a voice”.

Ms Long responded: “Proscribed terror organisations are not a legitimate part of our community.

“They aren’t stakeholders to be consulted.

MALIGNANT

“They are a malignant force destroying our community. Our job is to eradicate paramilitarism, not give them legitimacy.”

Loyalists have voiced anger over Northern Ireland’s post-brexit arrangements under the protocol, which ensures an open border with the Republic but means extra checks and processes on trade from Britain.

Graffiti and posters opposing Irish Sea border checks have appeared in some communities.

The DUP and other unionists have called for the protocol to be scrapped.

Alliance Party deputy leader Stephen Farry said the LCC meeting sent out a “terrible mixed message”.

But Democratic Unionist MLA Paul Givan, chair of the Assembly’s justice committee, dismissed his criticism as “sanctimonious hypocrisy”.

DEFENSIVE Arlene Foster