Tyrone politicians review security after MP’s murder

LOCAL politicians are to be increasingly mindful of their personal security following the death of English MP, David Amess last week.

Each of the North’s MPs have been contacted by local police following the murder. This move is part of an ongoing national initiative around the security of politicians known as Operation Bridger established in 2016.

This contact has also been extended to Northern Ireland’s 90 MLAs.

West Tyrone MP, Órfhlaith Begley said she has to take all the ‘appropriate precautions’ for her personal safety and that of the people with whom she is in contact.

The MP said, ”Sinn Féin have always been cognoscente of the security of elected representatives, constituency workers, party members and the general public who use our services.

“It is also vital that we continue to engage with the public to enable us to get their views and offer them whatever help and support we can.

“I am conscious of the need to reach out and be accessible to constituents which is why I will be holding constituency clinics in Aughabrack and Newtownstewart over the coming weeks.”

West Tyrone MLA, Daniel McCrossan said he has increased security at his SDLP office due to concerns.

He stated, “Sadly, there have been occasions when individuals have overstepped and have been verbally abusive towards me and our hard working staff.

“We continually monitor security at our offices, and are re-examining our policies in light of Sir David’s tragic death. We always want to ensure constituents can access our services with ease and with comfort. However, in the interests of staff and public safety we have invested in CCTV and door buzzer systems.”

DUP MLA, Tom Buchanan said it is important to talk to people if you have a problem with them, and not resort to violence.

Mr Buchanan said, “It is of the foremost importance that MLAs and their staff feel safe to do their work.

“It is not right to ever threaten or to be abusive to any person even if you disagree with them on certain issues. I would encourage anyone to come and talk to me in a civil manner about any issue they wish to discuss.”

By Thomas Maher

t.maher@ulsterherald.com