Congressman should listen, not dismiss unionists

I am utterly appalled at the multiple remarks Congressman Richard Neal has used recently to describe unionism’s opposition to the protocol.

Unionism has legitimate concerns on the protocol and it is only fair that we are attentively listened to rather than ignorantly dismissed.

The wrecking-ball diplomacy of Congressman Richard Neal is like that of a bull in a china shop.

His dismissive remarks towards unionism’s legitimate concerns must stop.

Every unionist from moderate to hardline will be appalled by his remarks.

Diplomacy is supposed to bring all sides together to reach a resolution.

Congressman Richard Neal is achieving the opposite of that and I would advise he listen more rather than utter some of the very bizarre remarks he has made recently.

Michael Palmer, Ulster Unionist Party member, Newtownards

• Other comment articles:

• Jim Allister May 26: It is deluded to think red and green lanes will neuter the protocol

• Jeffrey Donaldson May 25: The UN condemns colonies, yet Northern Ireland has become one

• Brian John Spencer May 25: Thank goodness for those voices who challenge the anti British imbalance in Ireland

• Editorial May 25: Unionists should make clear that they have a distinct stance on legacy of terror

• Jeff Dudgeon May 24: Anglican church won’t call Cork massacre of Protestants sectarian

• Owen Polley May 23: Many culprits are to blame for Irish Sea border

• DUP: The secretary of state’s move on abortion is a bad day for Northern Ireland

• Ben Lowry May 21: There’s been a shift in London towards sympathy for NI over protocol

• Ben Lowry May 21: I do love Bangor, but it is hard to think of it as a city

• John Redwood May 20: The government must act soon over Protocol – NI unionists want their country back

• Ben Habib May 18: There isn’t even a real threat of unilateral action on protocol

• Jim Allister May 17: Boris Johnson flew into NI with weak message on the protocol

• Ruth Dudley Edwards May 17: Thank you Lithuania for pursuing Omagh bomber

• Henry McDonald May 14: Will Boris Johnson deliver beyond his rhetoric?

• Ben Lowry May 14: Here are six of the broad reasons for the turn against unionism