Ulster Unionist Policing Board member Mike Nesbitt MLA has called on Sinn Fein to clarify comments attributed to its West Tyrone MP Orfhlaith Begley, in which she questioned if it was ‘appropriate’ to have a PSNI recruitment stall at a Pride event in Omagh.
Mike Nesbitt MLA said:
“The comments attributed to Sinn Fein’s West Tyrone MP Orfhlaith Begley are quite extraordinary given that Sinn Fein has been signed up to support policing since 2010 and that as recently as last year in February 2020 Michelle O’Neill and Gerry Kelly attended a PSNI recruitment drive and stood alongside the Chief Constable. Their appearance was described at the time by Simon Byrne as ‘seismic and historic.’
“That was only 18 months ago, but if the comments attributed to Sinn Fein’s West Tyrone MP are to be believed, it is ancient history. If Sinn Fein is genuine about supporting a PSNI that is truly reflective of the community, then Michelle O’Neill needs to have a word in Ms Begley’s ear because currently there are two Sinn Feins when it comes to their attitude to the police. We need the real Sinn Fein to stand up.
“The PSNI exists for the entire community right across Northern Ireland. Its officers face risks on a daily basis as they carry out their duties. Sinn Fein needs to clarify these comments as a matter of urgency. Another question also presents itself. If Sinn Fein can decide that the PSNI are not welcome at a Pride event, what other groups or organisations are they also seeking to ban? It hardly demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity.”