Deputy Mayor condemns violence in Ballymena and Larne, urges calm and community unity
- Love Ballymena
- Jun 12
- 2 min read

Deputy Mayor, DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey
The Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim has issued a firm condemnation following recent outbreaks of violence in Ballymena and Larne, describing the incidents as deeply distressing and completely unacceptable.
In a statement addressing the growing concern across the region, the Deputy Mayor, DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey, said:
“As Deputy Mayor, I unequivocally condemn the recent acts of violence that have taken place in Ballymena and Larne. These incidents have caused fear, disruption, and distress within our communities, and they have no place in our society.”
The unrest, which has resulted in significant community disruption, prompted urgent calls for calm and responsible behaviour from political leaders, residents, and community groups alike.
Councillor Hoey continued:
“Violence of any kind is unacceptable. It undermines the values of peace, respect, and mutual understanding that we strive to uphold. I stand with all residents in calling for calm, and I urge anyone who has intentions to cause destruction to stop, think again and think about your future.”
Calls for unity come amid ongoing concerns about community safety and cohesion in the wake of the disturbances. There has been a visible increase in police presence across affected areas as local authorities work to restore peace and reassure the public.
The Deputy Mayor, who on Wednesday met with Deputy First Minister Emma Pengelly, community representatives, and victims of the recent violence, reported that the message from all sides was clear and resolute.
“Yesterday I along with Deputy First Minister Emma Pengelly met with community reps, victims of this violence and the message was clear, this needs to stop.”
Emphasising the importance of collective action, the Deputy Mayor concluded with an appeal to the public to stand together against those seeking to spread fear or division:
“Now more than ever, we must come together to support one another, to reject this violence, to ensure that our towns remain places where everyone feels safe and welcome. Our community is stronger than those who seek to divide it.”
The statement has been welcomed by many across Northern Ireland, with increasing calls from civic leaders and organisations for dialogue, de-escalation, and long-term community engagement to prevent further unrest.