Sinn Féin TD calls on public not to engage with loyalist protestors

Sinn Féin Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has called on Dublin people not to engage with or be provoked by loyalist protestors who are planning a demonstration at the Dáil next week.

Deputy Crowe said:

“Willie Frazer’s proposed demonstration in Dublin is linked directly to so-called flag protests in the North in recent weeks, which are being orchestrated by unionist paramilitaries and supported by elements of the British extreme right such as the BNP.

“What we have witnessed is anti-Catholic and anti-Peace Process elements rioting on the streets, attacking property, people in the nationalist community, workers and the PSNI.  This campaign of sectarian intimidation and violence must be brought to an immediate end.

“Belfast is a shared city.  The rights and identities of all sections of the community there must be fully protected and respected.   This can only be done on the basis of equality, mutual respect and parity of esteem, as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement.

“While accepting everybody’s right to peaceful protest I would call on Mr Frazer and his associates to reconsider their plans. They should cancel this protest and all other protests which have been the cause of violence in recent weeks.

“This provocative publicity stunt is designed to ratchet up tension and trouble in Dublin.

“I am calling on all Dublin people and others in the capital not engage with or be provoked by these unwelcome protestors.”