LISTEN: Trade unions demand apology from Mid and East Antrim Mayor over "false" statements

By Q Radio news

Three trade unions are demanding an apology from the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council over what they claim were untruthful remarks - linked to the withdrawal of staff from Larne port.

NIPSA, UNITE and GMB say the remarks have prompted all three unions to consider suspending industrial relations with the council.

The unions have taken exception to the following comments from Mayor Councillor Peter Johnston: "“Trade unions on behalf of council members of staff assisting with the checks at the port have raised serious concerns around increasing suspicious activity such as apparent information gathering, including the taking of personal registration plates from their vehicles".

NIPSA spokesman Alan Law says the remarks attributed to the unions simply weren't true:

Workers returned to work on Friday after being temporarily removed from duties - amid concerns about staff safety, after graffiti emerged on loyalist areas threatening those carrying out border checks. 

The unions go on to say: "We remain extremely disappointed that management have failed to recognise the seriousness of this incident and the likely impact it will have on industrial relations.

We repeat our call to withdraw the untruthful remarks and advise that suspension of industrial relations is under active consideration.

NIPSA, UNITE and GMB expect the remarks to be withdrawn and an apology issued.

Q Radio has asked Mid and East Antrim Council for a response.