Two firefighters from Belfast have been suspended after they were filmed in an altercation during live television coverage of disorder in Newtownabbey last week. The incident occurred as they responded to a fire at a Department for Infrastructure site, where a vehicle had been set ablaze during disturbances near the Sandyknowes roundabout.
Incident Captured on Camera
The video, captured by a Sky News helicopter, appeared to show the two individuals pushing each other twice before a third firefighter intervened to separate them. A source close to those involved told Belfast Live that the pair were "best mates" and that the incident was merely "banter" and "messing about."
Suspension and Aftermath
Upon returning to the station after tackling the fire, the firefighters were informed that the incident had been aired on television. They were asked to provide statements while attending calls. When they arrived for their weekly training session on Thursday evening, they were told they had been suspended on full pay, asked to return their pagers, and escorted off the premises. A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) stated: "We do not comment on individual employee matters."
Background of the Riots
The disorder followed a knife attack on Monday, in which Stephen Ogilvie lost his left eye and suffered deep cuts to his head, face, and back. His family reported that his condition is improving and he could be woken from a coma within the next 48 hours. Twelve police officers were injured, 16 arrests were made, and two people were charged after Wednesday night's unrest. An incident in which a nurse was chased and intimidated while on her way to work at Ulster Hospital was also condemned.
Political Response
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said that "law and order will be coming" for those who engaged in disorder. DUP leader Gavin Robinson met with Mr. Ogilvie's parents, who expressed their desire that the attack not be used as an excuse for intimidation or division. They called for an end to misinformation and falsehoods. Hadi Alodid, 30, appeared in court on Wednesday facing charges of attempted murder over the knife attack.
