In response to the current Chairman of Strabane District Council, Cllr Kieran McGuire, Derg UUP Councillor, Derek Hussey, has said

"Mr McGuire has conveniently forgotten that the initial response to the removal of flags from the Millbrook Gardens area of Castlederg came from residents themselves! As a local representative, I am, of course, supportive of the wishes of the local community that I am privilleged to represent.

"It is within the nature of our society, that when an incident of this nature occurs, it responds in multipilcity.

"With regard to the nature of flags erected, I undoubtedly do have concerns when flags other than the Union Flag and The Flag of the Government of Northern Ireland (Ulster Flag to some) are erected.

"Flags have been removed from around the Castlederg area, including some from a fellow councillor’s area and indeed my own business premises.

"However, perhaps Mr McGuire has forgotten that there are those within our community who have supported terrorist activity - not least Sinn Fein, who have forever refused to condemn terrorist atrocities committed again their fellow residents of the Castlederg area.

"I have never supported any group that does or has perpetrated murder, mahem and disruption on their fellow residents of the Castlederg area and beyond, and never will.

"I also await Mr McGuire’s response to the desicration of a Wreath laid at our local Cenetaph in early July commemorating the sacrifice of British citizens from Ireland (North and South) during World War I.

"Like the vast majority of citizens within Northern Ireland, I welcome the present advancement in the area of decommissioning being undertaken by loyalist related organisations. Not before time might I add. I further hope that this illegal weaponry will be properly disposed off rather than be sequested or available to others as appears to be the case within the ’republican ideal’.


"Finally, if Mr McGuire wishes to discuss the issue further, I accept the challenge. I will attend a Public Meeting at any venue of his choice within the Glenderg/Castlederg area, with a Chairman of his choice, at a date and time of his choice, to debate the relevant matters.