20/09/2018

Sinn Fein Slams DUP Over Lifting Ian Paisley's Suspension

Sinn Fein has hit out at the DUP after the party confirmed that Ian Paisley's suspension has now been lifted.

However, he will be subject to a number of conditions including a ban on holding office within the party for twelve months, according to the party.

Sinn Féin Vice President Michelle O'Neill said Mr Paisley should have been sacked.

She said: "Ian Paisley received lavish holidays from the Sri Lankan regime and then lobbied to prevent the UN investigating war crimes against the Tamil people by that same regime.

"He displayed a gross lack of integrity in public office through these actions. Despite this, there was no hint of an apology from the DUP to either the people of North Antrim or the Tamil population.

"Instead, he has been welcomed back into the DUP fold.

"That represents another failure on behalf of the DUP and is an effective endorsement of his actions."

Earlier today it was announced that Mr Paisley has kept his seat as an MP in Westminster after less than 10% of constituents in North Antrim signed a petition that would have forced a by-election.

(CD)

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