The Ulster Unionist party’s Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Rosemary Barton, has condemned graffiti which appeared overnight in the Newell Road area of Dungannon, threatening Minister for Health Robin Swann.


Mrs. Barton said: “The vast majority of people in Northern Ireland recognise the sterling job that Robin Swann has done as Health Minister throughout the pandemic.
“Unfortunately, it appears that a few individuals are unable to see what the rest of society can.
“Two days ago, he had to make a complaint to the police about threats made against him and his family, and today we have learned that someone has taken it upon themselves to spray a threat on a wall in the Newell Road area of Dungannon.
“I genuinely pity the type of mind that would do such a thing.
“Last night also saw a number of disgraceful attacks on politicians – Robin included – on social media, with the Justice Minister, Naomi Long, in particular on the receiving end of vile, misogynistic abuse.
“People are entitled to an opinion, but they are not entitled to express it in the poisonous manner we have seen from some individuals.
“These trolls cannot, and will not, be allowed to silence democratically-elected politicians or to close down debate. My thoughts and best wishes are with Robin and Naomi,” she added.

DUP MLA Deborah Erskine also condemned the graffitti in her constiuency. She said: "I am absolutely appalled to see this graffiti in Dungannon. A target and Robin Swann's  name is threatening and sinister. People may disagree with restrictions or decisions implemented, but to destroy property & target a politician with a family, trying their best is just senseless."

Mrs Erskine confirmed to this newspaper that she will be working with Mid Ulster District Council and the Housing Executive to have the threatening graffitti removed.