Ulster Unionist Party representative, Councillor David Taylor, has strongly criticised comments made by Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard implying the threat of violence on the basis of possible border structures arising after Brexit and called on Sinn Fein to clarify its position.
Councillor Taylor said:
“Chris Hazzard’s implied threat of violence with regard to the possible implementation of border structures after Brexit should be condemned by all right thinking people.
“His comments are completely unacceptable and irresponsible to say the very least. They are a worrying reflection of Sinn Fein’s thinking on Brexit and provide a disturbing insight into their future strategic positioning on this issue.
“It is extremely unfortunate that Republicans always resort to type by making threats of violence when they fail to get their own way on various political issues.
“Given that Chris Hazzard is saying that these tactics are an extension of ‘dissident’ republicans, the question must also be asked if Chris Hazzard is reflecting the views of Sinn Fein or the IRA Army Council?
“Sinn Fein must clarify its position in terms of Chris Hazzard’s remarks and provide very clear assurances that the threat of violence will not be utilised as a tool by Republicans to blackmail negotiators on Brexit.”