Derry DUP councillor calls for people to 'get on with it' and accuses republicanism of 'demonising our faith'

Derry DUP councillor Alderman David Ramsey have called for people to 'get on with it' following a number of recent criticisms ahead of the Twelfth of July celebrations.

Issues have been raised locally about the erection of Union flags in mixed areas and the painting of a roundabout in County Derry.

Alderman Ramsey said: "Why did the Orange Order form, answer, for the defence, support and protection of irish Protestantism, why did loyalists paramilitaries form, answer, in reaction to Republican murders of irish Protestants, why did many Protestants join the security forces, answer for the defence of our people and country, why did Protestants leave the west bank of Londonderry, answer, because of republican terrorism.

"Why did Protestants end up with a siege mentality, answer, because they looked over their shoulders for most of their lives. You can try and rewrite history but we know the facts."

"We have reached out and we try to make this a better place but republicanism won't stop trying to demonise our faith, but we are up for the long haul, the good in both communities will overcome and move on.

"Gerry Adams and his radical republican agenda can't last forever.

"Have a great day on Wednesday and maybe one day this city will be like it was before the exodus and everyone will get on with it."