Statement by TUV Court councillor Jolene Bunting:
“The violence which marred the 12th parade when it was stopped at Twaddell was rightly condemned by all sections of the Unionist community. As I said in the time it was not only wrong but counterproductive.
“However, there are serious concerns about the way in which the event was policed. This afternoon a lady hit by a plastic bullet, another who had her window screen cracked by a baton round and a gentleman who was narrowly missed by one – all while standing a considerable distance away from any trouble – and I met with an investigating officer from the Police Ombudsman’s office.
“The PSNI have a job of work to do rebuilding the trust and confidence of the Unionist community – particularly after events in Londonderry where there was a large paramilitary display openly in the streets with a minimal police presence. This is totally unacceptable and leaves many Unionists believing that double standards are at play.
“I very much hope that the Police Ombudsman’s Office threats these matters with the seriousness they deserve. There a serious questions which need to be answered about the use of plastic bullets Monday week ago.”