Kennedy condemns “mindless violence” following Helicopter Crash
Ulster Unionist Newry & Armagh assembly member, Danny Kennedy, has strongly condemned those behind attacks on police and ambulance service personnel at the scene of the helicopter crash in Crossmaglen.
In a statement, Mr Kennedy said: “There is simply no excuse for any member of the emergency services to come under attack at any time. In this instance, police were acting for the public good by safely preserving the crash site.
“I also understand that ambulance crews were similarly targeted by stone-throwers. It is completely unacceptable for ambulance crews to be harassed in this way.
“Those behind these attacks, who were engaging in mindless, destructive behaviour, have nothing to offer the people of Northern Ireland.”
He added: “Regrettably there is considerable difference between resolutions passed at the Sinn Fein ard fheis and practical support for law and order on the ground in republican areas. Clearly much progress remains to be made.
“I would wish those injured in the crash a full and speedy recovery. I would also urge anyone with information on the subsequent violent attacks to contact police. The emergency services do a vitally important and difficult job. That job must not be made more difficult by the actions of an idiotic minority.”