Mosside flag protest was ‘attempt to spread fear and intimidate’ - P McShane

Independent Councillor Padraig McShane was speaking following another flag protest, this time in Mosside.

He said the protest on Monday January 14 “numbered some forty people accompanied by a light police presence”.

“I have been contacted by several individuals who shared views ranging from anger to fear at the sight of what they believe are thugs taking charge of the street while the police stand by.

“The blocking of a main arterial road is not only wrong but illegal. I will be pushing for arrests of those who are attempting to service their egos over and above allowing people to get on with their lives. The community in Moyle should and will not be held to ransom.

“Moyle enjoys excellent community relations and attempts to undermine those relations will only end in failure. Moyle will continue with its current flags policy on its property and the Council continues to act with the interests of all to the fore.”

A PSNI spokesperson told the Times: “Police were managing a peaceful protest on Monday, 14 January in the Main Street, Mosside area of Moyle when a number of protestors then moved onto the road and blocked it.

“We have been reiterating the messages personally and throughout social media about keeping the parades peaceful and legal so that those person organising and participating in them are aware of the law.

“Enquiry teams have been established and will be carrying out thorough investigations of all of the evidence we have taken so far at these protests.

“Police in Moyle will continue to work closely with local residents, community representatives and other agencies to address any concerns they may have and work to ensure that any protests pass off both peacefully and lawfully.”