Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement from TUV Braid Christopher Jamieson:
“I have been contacted by a number of constituents who are deeply concerned about the apparent discrepancy in how police bail has been handled following the serious sectarian rioting in Londonderry last night, compared to the arrests made in Ballymena last week.
“It appears that some of those arrested in Londonderry were released on police bail, whereas those detained in Ballymena were charged, brought before the courts, and refused bail.
“There are even reports of juveniles from Ballymena being remanded in custody, while a very different approach seems to have been taken in Londonderry.
“Such disparity does nothing to ease tensions and only fuels the perception of a two-tier system of justice.
“The criminal justice system must not only be fair, but must also be seen to be fair. People must not be left with the impression that the disorder in Londonderry — which the Chief Constable himself described as “blatant sectarian violence” — is being treated more leniently.
“Londonderry has long been plagued, particularly at this time of year, by violence directed towards its minority Protestant population. It is high time that this was dealt with with the seriousness it deserves — not only by the police and the courts, but by the media as well.
“To that end, I have written formally to both the Chief Constable and the Director of Public Prosecutions to seek urgent clarification on why such differing approaches appear to have been taken. The public deserves transparency and reassurance that the law is applied consistently, without fear or favour.”