Stormont MLA Criticises Ardoyne 'Riot' Parents

A Policing Board member in the North has responded to claims the PSNI shot baton rounds "indiscriminately" during riots in Ardoyne in north Belfast last month.

The mother of one 13-year-old boy, who was struck by a plastic bullet, questioned the police's handling of the situation in yesterday's Irish News.

However, Ulster Unionist assemblyman Basil McCrea said the parents of children, such as Patrick Waring, should take more responsibility.

The Policing Board member said: "People need to understand that when a child puts himself or herself in danger, it is the parent's responsibility first and foremost.

"Too often people talk about their rights and overlook their responsibilities. Parents are supposed to protect their children from dangerous situations."

Mr McCrea said baton rounds are not used for general crowd control but are instead used for identified threats.

"I would like to emphasise that batons are not allowed to be fired into crowds, never mind crowds of children," he said.

If the police response is found to be reasonable and proportionate, Mr McCrea said questions should be asked about the parents of children involved in the riots.

"The events surrounding the discharge of batons were not cases of peaceful protest. A number of people attacked police officers with petrol bombs, bottles and bricks. 21 officers were injured," he said.

"Children should not be allowed near such disorder and parents should be in control of their children. Parenting is about responsibilities - and where parents fail in their responsibility then serious questions must be asked."

The Police Ombudsman is currently investigating the matter.

See: Ardoyne Riots 'Cost'

(PR/BMcC)