Northern Ireland

Ian Paisley has apologised to Robin Swann over Van Morrison rant, says Poots

Ian Paisley Jnr hugging Sir Van Morrison on stage at the Europa Hotel in Belfast on Thursday night
Ian Paisley Jnr hugging Sir Van Morrison on stage at the Europa Hotel in Belfast on Thursday night Ian Paisley Jnr hugging Sir Van Morrison on stage at the Europa Hotel in Belfast on Thursday night

DUP MP Ian Paisley has apologised to the Health Minister "in person" for joining Van Morrison in chatting that Robin Swann is "dangerous" at the Europa Hotel, says DUP leader Edwin Poots. 

Mr Poots told the BBC that the MP got himself into an "awkward situation" and it shouldn’t have happened.

"It shouldn't have happened so I spoke to Ian immediately after that. Ian agreed that it shouldn't have happened. Ian agreed to apologise to Robin Swann and he has apologised to Robin Swann. I welcome that."

When asked if Mr Paisley had made a public apology, Mr Poots said that Mr Paisley had apologised in person to Mr Swann and that he was not sure if Mr Swann wanted Mr Paisley to make a public apology. 

"Ian got himself into an awkward situation. Van Morrison called him onto the stage. His reaction was wrong. He accepts it was wrong and he has apologised." 

Sir Van Morrison has shown no regret for his chant branding Mr Robin Swann as "dangerous".

The singer, a critic of Covid-19 restrictions, took to the stage on Thursday and in front of an audience of 140 at the Europa Hotel, chanted “Robin Swann is very dangerous!”

"No, I don't regret it. Of course, he's dangerous. He's a fraud," he told the Sunday Life yesterday.

Mr Paisley issued a statement on Friday evening in the wake of widespread criticism.

The statement said: “Last night’s event was very sad for the live music industry. I was put on the spot and called to the stage and tried to bring matters to a close by referencing some of Van’s music. What was parody, comedy, banter and sarcasm should not be blown out of all proportion.

“I certainly don’t believe Robin is dangerous. I think the parody and sarcasm of that comment is obvious! Remember last year the Department of Health labelled a song dangerous and I think Van is entitled to parody that. There is a balance in all of these matters and at times we get them right and at times wrong.

“We are all entitled to our own views on how the lockdown has been managed. I’m sure some will take offence - as with all things- but none was intended on my part.”

Representatives of the main political parties were united in their criticism of Paisley and Morrison, who were likened to "spoiled toddlers stamping their feet".

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood branded the performance as "embarrassing" and "pathetic".

"Those comments fly in the face of those who have died and lost loved ones as a result of Covid-19," he said.

"Van Morrison has let himself down, but Ian Paisley Jr should know better".

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said both men owned Mr Swann an apology.

"Considering what the entire community has been through in the past year, with many losing loved ones and livelihoods, both Van Morrison and Ian Paisley looked like spoiled toddlers stamping their feet," he said.

"They both owe Robin Swann an apology, and unlike the last leader, the new DUP leadership needs to step up to set some standards and keep Ian Paisley in line".

Sinn Féin assembly member Colm Gildernew said the actions of Mr Morrison and Mr Paisley was "very concerning".

"This sends out a very dangerous public health message at a time when Covid continues to pose a real threat in our communities.

"The DUP need to clarify if Ian Paisley's behaviour reflects the party's view".

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie said he was "absolutely disgusted" by what he saw in the video.

"They should be ashamed of themselves," he said.

"Two grown men who should know better, engaging in a very personal attack on Northern Ireland`s Health Minister".