DUP Causeway councillor slams McGuinness book of condolence, as party members sign elsewhere

Lord Mayor of Belfast Brian Kingston (a DUP councillor, Methodist, and member of both the Orange Order and Royal Black Preceptory) was first to sign a newly opened book in Belfast City Hall on Wednesday, while DUP leader Arlene Foster also signed a book of condolence at the Assembly.

Yet the DUP group on Causeway Council which Mr Finlay leads, has issued a statement criticising their own mayor – SDLP Alderman Maura Hickey – for opening books of condolence there.

Mr Finlay said: “All families are entitled to grieve in peace when they lose a loved one, and should be given space to do so. However, Mr McGuinness inflicted misery and pain on many in Northern Ireland. People across all communities suffered as a result of a protracted terrorist campaign in which he unashamedly participated and directed.”

The News Letter asked Mr Finlay how he could oppose signing the book in his own council while high-profile members of his own party had already signed books elsewhere. He replied: “That is how I feel about it. That is all I can say.

“Arlene has my 110% support, but in my personal capacity I don’t feel I can sign the book, and my [council] group feels the same way.”

He added: “If I had been a widow or had a relative murdered I don’t think I would have had any sympathy.”