Statement by Jim Allister MLA:
“As the UK was rejoicing in the news of the birth of Prince George it did not take long for the Sinn Fein mask to slip yet again. This time it was the turn of Phil Flanagan MLA who retweeted a crude and offensive comment in relation to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
“While hardly surprising it is nonetheless unwarranted and I would argue it was a breach of the Code of Conduct that all MLAs are bound by. Therefore, I have today sent a letter of formal complaint to the Assembly Commissioner for investigation.”
Below is the text of a letter TUV leader Jim Allister MLA has today sent to the Northern Ireland Assembly Commissioner for Standards following the conduct of Sinn Fein MLA Phil Flanagan.
Dear Mr Bain,
I write to make a formal complaint against Phil Flanagan MLA following his conduct on Monday 22nd July.
By re-tweeting an offensive and entirely inappropriate comment it is my belief that Mr Flanagan has breached the code of conduct and as such requires investigation.
Please find enclosed relevant evidence.
The Code of Conduct clearly states:
Members have a general duty to act in the interests of the community as a whole.
Promoting Good Relations
Members will act in a way that is conducive to promoting good relations by providing a positive example for the wider community to follow by acting justly and promoting a culture of respect for the law.
Respect
It is acknowledged that the exchange of ideas, and opinions on policies may be robust but this should be kept in context and not extend to individuals being subjected to unreasonable and excessive personal attack. Members should keep in mind that rude and offensive behaviour may lower the public’s regard for, and confidence in, Members and the Assembly itself. Members should therefore show respect and consideration for others at all times.
Accordingly, I ask you investigate.
Yours sincerely,
James H Allister QC MLA
