‘Completely unacceptable': Unionists hit out after flag stolen from Orange Hall in Co Antrim
'The destruction of the flagpole and theft of the union flag at Mossley Orange Hall is incredibly disappointing to see and should be condemned by all,' he said.
"This vandalism, carried out last night, is completely unacceptable and I urge anyone with information to speak to PSNI.
"My colleagues have been in contact with the Lodge following this attack on their hall, and I will be offering to give my support however I can.'
Antrim and Newtownabbey UUP Councillor Robert Foster said there had never been an incident at the hall before.
"This is a resource used by the whole local community, and recently the District and Lodge have held proactive outreach nights exploring the origins and history of the Orange Order as part of their work to strengthen community relations,' he said.
"The lodge will have my full support and assistance in replacing the flagpole and flag as quickly as possible.'
DUP MLA for the area, Trevor Clarke, said the attack was an example of 'sectarian vandalism'.
"This is petty, pointless sectarian vandalism, and it's part of a worrying trend of sectarian attacks on Orange Halls across Northern Ireland,' he said.
"I've spoken with the Lodge, they've contacted the PSNI, and I'll also be writing to raise this with police leadership. We need stronger, visible efforts to tackle these blatantly sectarian crimes before tensions escalate further.
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"And to the sectarian idiots behind this, one day, you'll be caught.
"One day, you'll sit in a job interview and have to explain why you've a criminal record for a hate crime, theft and criminal damage... because you 'struck a blow for Irish freedom' one night by breaking into an Orange Hall, destroying a flagpole and stealing a Union Jack just because you are filled with sectarian hatred. Well done.'
Why is the M3 closed this weekend ?
The PSNI has been approached for comment.
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