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Sinn Féin councillors in Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have described how they were "verbally accosted and physically intimidated" while leaving a meeting at the Council's Mossley Mill HQ in Newtownabbey on Monday night. A group of around 30 individuals had gathered outside the council offices on Monday night with posters including an AI-generated image of Sinn Féin's Mary Lou McDonald, Michelle O'Neill and Gerry Adams surrounded by crocodiles in the colour of the Palestinian flag. Among those present at the protest was former UVF bank robber turned so-called "citizen journalist", Mark Sinclair, AKA Freedom Dad. The protest had been teased online a number of hours prior but the location was not publicised and organisers are understood to have sent it to select individuals they wanted to attend. Footage of the incident, which has appeared on YouTube, shows Sinclair following a number of councillors to their cars while the PSNI watch on. Speaking after the incident, the Sinn Féin council group leader, Maighréad Ní Chonghaile, said: “Tonight Sinn Féin councillors were verbally accosted and physically intimidated by a hostile crowd as they left a meeting of Antrim and Newtownabbey Council. “A mob of up to 30 individuals carrying banners and placards verbally threatened councillors as they left the building and moved into the car park on their way home. “The PSNI maintained a presence throughout but did not intervene. Our councillors felt physically threatened and intimidated by the unrestrained behaviour of these individuals. “Whilst being the subject of intense verbal attack, lights and cameras were placed in the faces of individual councillors. “I absolutely condemn this attempt to interfere with public representatives conducting their lawful democratic business. Sinn Féin will not be deflected from providing representation for all citizens in Antrim and Newtownabbey Council . I will be demanding that both council management and the PSNI review security arrangements for councillors while attending council business. “Sinn Féin will be seeking meetings with the council Chief Executive and the PSNI District Commander to address this attempt at mob rule tonight.” A PSNI spokesperson confirmed that police were made aware of a planned protest and that officers were in attendance to ensure public safety, facilitate the right to peaceful protest, and to help minimise disruption to the wider community. Antrim and Newtownabbey Superintendent Rosie Thompson said: “Police will review all evidence gathered and enquiries into the matter are ongoing. “We will work with the council and will extend offers to meet representatives from all political parties and independents and have offered the services of our crime prevention officer, in addition to other relevant safety advice. “We, in the Police Service of Northern Ireland will continue to do all we can to ensure that our local representatives feel supported and safe in our communities and that they can undertake their role free from intimidation and fear.” When contacted by Belfast Live, a spokesperson for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council said: "Council Officers are investigating the matter and liaising with Elected Members and the PSNI." For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our politics newsletter here.
