18/09/24
Security alert continues at Henry Jones playing fields
Police remain at the scene of a security alert at Henry Jones playing fields in east Belfast after a suspicious object was found.
The site is used by the East Belfast Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) club as well as other sports.
There have been several security alerts at the Belfast City Council-owned facility since 2020.
The Church Road was closed on Tuesday between Manse Road and Marlborough Heights.
Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area.
'Relentless intimidation'
Northern Ireland's Justice Minister Naomi Long said the "relentless intimidation" was "intolerable and has to stop".
"It disrupts everyone using Henry Jones playing fields, neighbouring primary school children and their families and consumes valuable police resources," she added.
Writing on social media Green Party councillor for the area Brian Smyth said: ''This campaign of intimidation won't work, the club have every right to play at the Henry Jones site.''
He said that the council was in the process of "stepping up security measures".
CCTV and more security
Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) councillor Séamas de Faoite said that work would be starting in the coming weeks on CCTV and more security measures would be put in place.
"Those who are intent on causing mayhem to everyone who uses Henry Jones, along with the school and nurseries on Church Road, will be caught," he said.
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