Executive condemns threats against Larne Port staff after loyalists say they were not involved

The claim was made this morning by the BBC after East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson said he had “no indication where the threats were coming from”.

Speaking on BBC Mr Wilson said that he wanted “tensions gone” and that “should be a political problem”.

The news comes as checks on animal and food products at Larne and Belfast ports have been suspended amid concerns for staff safety.

The Department of Agriculture said this was pending talks with the PSNI.

This comes after Mid and East Antrim Council withdrew staff from Brexit inspection duties at Larne Port over security concerns.

Graffiti opposing the Irish Sea border has been painted in some loyalist areas of Northern Ireland in recent days.

The mayor of Larne, the DUP’s Peter Johnston, said the council decision had been taken due to “menacing behaviour” referencing growing tensions over the NI Protocol.

It is understood that the PSNI is due to meet Mid and East Antrim council and officials from Stormont’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) on Tuesday morning to discuss the threats to workers at Larne and Belfast ports.

The NI Executive has this morning condemned threats against staff at Larne Port.

In a statement they said that “regardless of our very different views on the NI Protocol, the Executive is united in condemning any threats made against workers and staff going about their duties at Belfast and Larne ports”.

The statement adds: “As public servants, these staff should be allowed to do their jobs without fear and it is unacceptable and intolerable that threats have been made.

“The threats should be lifted immediately and staff should be allowed to return to their posts and get back to their work.

“There is no place in society for intimidation and threats against anyone going to their place of work. The Northern Ireland Executive will also discuss the latest developments.”

Police said they have increased patrols at Larne port and other “points of entry”.

“The safety of staff working at points of entry is of the utmost importance to us,” the PSNI tweeted.

“Where we have credible information we will share that with our partners and take appropriate action.”

Mr Wilson also told the BBC that he had “no idea where the threats are coming from”.

“But I know about staff concerns and they are taking the threats very seriously,” he added.

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