Swann told to “review security arrangements” after fresh threats
“What sort of society are we becoming where Northern Ireland's Health Minister is now having to deal with yet more threats and intimidation?"
Last updated 30th Sep 2021
Northern Ireland’s Health Minister has been advised by the PSNI to review his security arrangements due to new threats made against him.
According to the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, Doug Beattie, Robin Swann was contacted by police in the last few days.
He described the threats made against his colleague as “deplorable”.
He said: “Free speech is a cornerstone of a democratic society. However free speech does not extend to making threats against public figures including politicians.
“It is deplorable.
"People can disagree with each other, but where that disagreement means that people are directly threatened or intimidated then the law must step in and take action.
“It is also beholden on all politicians to be mindful of their language.
“What politicians say can stir up some of the most sinister elements in our society.
“In the last few days, my friend and colleague Robin Swann has been contacted by the PSNI in relation to threats made against him and now has to review his security arrangements again.
“What sort of society are we becoming where Northern Ireland`s Health Minister is now having to deal with yet more threats and intimidation?
“This isn't the first time Robin has had to deal with this. He has received death threats in the last eighteen months against both him and his family, and now this latest threat.
“In the last 24 hours, I have read yet more vile online comments directed at Robin.
“Not only is Robin Northern Ireland's Health Minister, but he is also a husband and a father.
“Until you walk in his shoes through the midst of the worst public health crisis that has faced our society in a hundred years, maybe consider what you say and how you say it.
“Be it Robin Swann, a nurse or domestic, a doctor or a porter, the NHS is a team top to bottom and a threat to one is a threat to all.”
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