Debate contribution: Paramilitarism

Debate contribution by Mr Matthew O'Toole on 7 October 2024.

MLA: Mr Matthew O'Toole
Party at the time: Social Democratic and Labour Party
Date: 7 October 2024
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Paramilitarism
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 4579177

Text

I will assume, hopefully, that the deputy First Minister will not seek the input of loyalist paramilitary gangs when it comes to other policy areas. I will ask this specific question. The Programme for Government says:
"Paramilitary harm continues to affect too many adults and young people".
It also says:
"paramilitary gangs continue to exert coercive control".
That is the case in certain communities here, including in east Belfast, where East Belfast GAA is unable to safely practise because there continue to be vexatious threats to its grounds. What message does it send when Ministers in the Executive continue to have meetings — I repeat this — with representatives of those organisations?

112 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Part of an exchange

This follow-up belongs to: Topical question AQT 601/22-27.

Assessment

Not analysed

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