Statement by TUV party secretary and North Belfast Assembly candidate Ron McDowell:
“I am deeply concerned by reports of what the proposed permits being discussed by Belfast City Council will result in and specifically the chilling effect that they could have on freedom of speech and expression.
“As I understand it, the proposed bylaws will regulate not only the use of amplification equipment but also stalls, literature and other displays of materials. With Unionists now a minority within the council chamber any regulation of the freedom of expression in such a fashion is particularly concerning for my community. As the events of recent days have shown, the council cannot even tolerate illuminating City Hall to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland. Unionists and Loyalists will therefore be especially concerned about granting the council such sweeping powers, particularly when we keep in mind that key movers being these proposals are in the Alliance Party.
“As our capital city Belfast is naturally the focal point of many protests where people exercise their fundamental right to freedom of speech. It should therefore be a place where freedom of speech should be particularly jealously guarded, not undermined. It is important that those who often have to use public protest to bring attention to their causes – like the trade union movement of which I am a proud member – speak out on this issue.
“It is reported that street preachers and pro-life protestors are the particular targets of these proposed bylaws. If that is the case it only makes them more concerning as freedom of religion and the right to life are both fundamental rights protected by domestic, European and international law.
“It is important to remember that freedom of speech is a liberty won at enormous cost and it should not be surrendered to anyone, least of all to a body with the track record of our City Council.
“I and many other ratepayers will watch events with interest. I know there are many like myself who have been far from impressed with the initial reaction of Unionists to proposals which could have particularly serious ramifications for our community.”