Statement by Lagan Valley TUV Assembly candidate and ex-servicewoman Lorna Smyth:
“No one can see the images coming out of the Ukraine and fail to be both moved and inspired by what is taking place. Moved by the suffering endured by a people who are under attack. Inspired by their determination not to give up in the face of overwhelming odds.
“We have also cause to be proud because of the contribution which Northern Ireland is making to the fight for freedom with Belfast built NLAW anti-tank weapons being deployed to slow the Russian advance.
“In a recent report in the Daily Mail Ukrainian Lt Col Ihor Bezogluk is quoted as saying:
“God save the Queen! Thank you to Great Britain for giving us the NLAWs. These missiles have changed the war for us. It means we can fight the Russians and it doesn’t matter how many of them there are now that we have a way of stopping their armour.”
“While the Republic maintains its immoral position of neutrality – a position which requires incredible mental gymnastics following the EU’s announcement yesterday – Northern Ireland’s position in the U.K. means that we are unequivocally on the side of right in this situation.”