Northern Ireland

Áontu councillor Emmet Doyle claims he was assaulted over position on abortion

Emmet Doyle says he was attacked because of his anti-abortion stance
Emmet Doyle says he was attacked because of his anti-abortion stance Emmet Doyle says he was attacked because of his anti-abortion stance

AN Áontu councillor has claimed he was attacked in Derry and "suffered a vicious assault" by a group of people opposed to his stance on abortion.

Derry and Strabane District councillor Emmet Doyle has reported to the PSNI he was attacked in the early hours of Friday morning on Waterloo Street in the city.

“Whilst in the city centre in the early hours of Friday morning I suffered a vicious assault in Waterloo Street," Mr Doyle said.

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"After entering a food establishment alone, a group of people entered, some of whom I recognised to be members of a group deeply opposed to my stance on the right to life.

"They engaged me verbally and I left with my order.

"On leaving the premises I was accosted and received a cut to my head, bruises and black eyes. The attack was unprovoked.

"As an elected representative, I passionately defend what I believe in and act on behalf of constituents regardless of their views.

"I would never think of physically attacking an opponent, we are all entitled to our views and the respect to communicate them.

Mr Doyle said he "rang the police after the event to report the attack, but they didn’t attend the scene and rang me some time later".

He added: " was contacted and asked to come to the Strand Road Police Station this afternoon which I did, to be told no one was available to take my statement. I will attempt to do so again in the coming days.

"I’m deeply grateful for the messages and support I have received from my party leader, Peadar Tóibín TD, family, party colleagues, constituents and colleagues from across Council.

"Our city centre should be safe for anyone. Violence is entirely unacceptable no matter the victim and I intend to ensure the perpetrators are identified and prosecuted."

"Nothing will stop me serving my constituents, I won’t be silenced.”

The PSNI was contacted last night.