Police are investigating an arson attack in which the Derry SDLP councillor Brian Tierney's car was set alight outside his home last night.
The incident happened in the Glencaw Park area of Derry at 10.20pm when the car was set alight. The fire was extinguished by a member of the public.
It is understood Mr Tierney's wife and children were in the house at the time.
No one was injured during this incident.
The SDLP Leader and Foyle MLA Colum Eastwood condemned the attack.
He said: “I condemn those responsible for this attack in the strongest possible terms.
“Cllr Tierney’s wife and young children were at home at the time and are understandably shaken by this incident.
“Brian Tierney is an outstanding public representative who works tirelessly for everyone in our community. He will not be deterred from continuing the excellent work he is doing on the ground in Galliagh and the wider Ballyarnett area.
“SDLP representatives over the years have faced all sorts of intimidation and threat. It didn’t stop us working for our communities then and it won’t stop us now.
“I urge anyone with any information to get in touch with the PSNI directly."
Commenting,the Sinn Fein Foyle MP Elisha McCallion condemned those behind the attack.
"Firstly I would like to offer my full support to Brian and his family following this attempted arson attack on the family car.
"What happened last night was not only an attempt to intimidate an elected representative and his family but also threatening and intimidating the entire community by anti democratic groups.
"Elected representatives have to be able to go about their work and the cut and thrust of politics without being targeted in this way.
"I would urge anyone with information on this attack to contact the police.
Inspector William Calderwood would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident to contact Police. Police would particularly like to speak to two males who were seen in the area as they may have information which could assist with the investigation.
Police can be contacted on the non-emergency number 101, please quote reference 1620 24/11/17. Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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