Justice Minister has condemned the serious
disorder in Derry~Londonderry yesterday evening.
The Minister said: “Yet again we have seen disturbing
scenes on our streets with the eruption of violence and disorder
last night in Derry. Yet again, the PSNI came under attack
and yet again a number of officers were injured. There is
absolutely no place in our society for such disorder and there is
absolutely no justification for it.”
The Minister appealed to those involved to consider their
actions, which may result in a criminal conviction. She
said: “Those involved in this disorder will be pursued by
the PSNI and will be brought to justice in a court of law.
This could have a serious impact on individuals in terms of
employability, international travel and much more. Rioting is
never 'recreational': it is serious criminality which places
lives at risk and destroys communities.”
“I send my best wishes to those injured officers, and I
wish them a speedy recovery. No one deserves to be attacked
for the job they do. I am committed to introducing stronger
legislation to protect police officers and staff as part of my
Sentencing Bill which I hope to introduce to the Assembly in the
autumn of this year.”
Anyone with information which could assist the police and bring
those involved in violence to justice can contact 101.
