UDA cash conference is appalling - Alliance

11.59.04am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 4th Apr 2007

Newtownabbey Alliance Councillor Tom Campbell

Commenting on the conference being held today on how funding for loyalist paramilitaries should be spent, Alliance Spokesperson Cllr Tom Campbell has stated that this cash should not be given to them in the first place. He also said that the UDA must shut down now and that no financial bribery should be involved in the process.

Newtownabbey Councillor Tom Campbell said: "It is sickening that loyalist paramilitaries are gaining funding from the government. Taxpayers are disgusted to find out that the government is using their money to essentially bribe the UDA to stop its campaign of terror.

"Today's conference unfortunately gives credibility to the representatives of loyalist paramilitaries. These people do not represent communities. If they want to speak on behalf of people, they should seek election. Until then their voice means nothing.

"The message that local people are sending out is loud and clear. They believe that paramilitaries should not be given cash and they also believe that such groups must stand down and disband now.

"The UDA has tortured the people and businesses in Northern Ireland with its intimidation, racketeering and drug dealing. People are still in shock that the government has chosen to reward their bad behaviour with cash handouts."

ENDS