Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA has paid tribute to Northern Ireland's emergency service personnel, praising their courage, dedication and resilience.

Jon Burrows said:

“Northern Ireland's emergency services have deep roots in outstanding public service. Through the darkest days of the Troubles, the pressures of the pandemic and the emergencies faced every day, they have demonstrated courage and unparalleled resilience.

“They enter burning buildings, treat casualties in the immediate aftermath of terrible accidents and carry out daring and selfless rescues at sea. They work while we sleep and turn out for duty while the rest of us celebrate Christmas and other special occasions with our families.

“Our police officers, firefighters, paramedics, Coastguard teams, search and rescue organisations, air ambulance crews and community first responders run towards danger while others seek safety. When people experience the worst moments of their lives, our emergency services are there.

“We remember especially those killed or injured in the line of duty. Many carry physical and mental scars on our behalf. We also thank their families, whose sacrifice and support must never be overlooked.

“The honour of the Royal Ulster Constabulary George Cross must always be defended. Its officers stood between terrorism and the community throughout the Troubles, with 312 officers murdered and thousands more injured. Attempts to rewrite that history must be challenged.

“Today's PSNI officers also deserve our full support. The Chief Constable recently warned that officers can be more willing to be assaulted than use legitimate force because they fear they will not be supported. That is appalling.

“Too often, politicians have rushed to condemn officers on the basis of a short social media clip stripped of context. Those who protect the public must know that when they act lawfully and professionally, we will stand behind them.

“All our emergency service personnel deserve more than warm words. They deserve proper resources, protection from assault and abuse, and the unwavering support of the public and their political representatives.

“On Emergency Services Day, we simply say: thank you. Northern Ireland is safer because of your courage, professionalism and service.”