The Five Demands

DUP MLA McCrea’s car burnt out (UTV)

Mid Ulster DUP MLA Ian McCrea has had his car burnt out in a suspected arson attack at his home in Cookstown.
The vehicle – parked outside his house in the Tullycall Road area of the Co Tyrone town – was completely destroyed in the fire, which was reported at around 4am.
Mr McCrea said it happened just a few yards from the property, with a gas cylinder nearby.
Emergency crews dealt with the blaze. Police said the incident is being treated as suspected arson.
The Assemblyman said he is “shocked” by the attack, during which he had to move his three children from their beds to safety.
“Whilst a car can be replaced and the yard resurfaced, nothing will remove the terror of this event from the minds of my three young children who had to be lifted from their beds and taken to safety,” he said.
“The people who carried out this action had little or no regard for human life. Whilst no one was injured, this situation could have been a lot different had the gas cylinder exploded or the house caught fire. We could be dealing with several fatalities.”
Deputy First Minister and MP for the area Martin McGuinness condemned the attack.
“There can be no possible justification for this attack on his family car,” he said.
“Those who carried out this attack are attempting to heighten tensions as we reach the height of the marching season and this action must be condemned.”
Meanwhile First Minister and party colleague of Mr McCrea, Peter Robinson, said those behind the attack do not speak for the local community.
“I have spoken with Ian and assured him that his wife and family are in our thoughts after this traumatic experience,” Mr Robinson said.
“Those who carried out this criminal act had no regard for Ian’s life or indeed that of his family.
“I unreservedly condemn this attack and I know those responsible do not speak for their community. Regardless of our political views, no one has the right to engage in such criminal and hate filled behaviour.”
Mr McCrea added that “regardless of political differences in Mid Ulster”, it was “outrageous” that his family home was targeted.
“I know, by the comments of support, that the majority of people are horrified and deplore it,” he said.
“I am a politician and expect to be the target of verbal criticism but targeting my family home is outrageous and demonstrates the hatred within some elements.”
Police are asking anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area at the time to come forward with information.