The Ulster Unionist Party will commemorate the 17th anniversary of the Massereene Barracks attack tomorrow. On the 7th March 2009, Sappers Mark Quinsey and Patrick Azimkar were murdered in a senseless act of violence, while two other soldiers and two civilian delivery men were also wounded.

Ahead of the 17^th anniversary Massereene Barracks attack, Robin Swann MP reflected:

“The senseless loss of Sappers Mark Quinsey and Patrick Azimkar on the 7th March 2009 remains a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Northern Ireland. Their sacrifice in the line of duty will never fade from memory. I pay tribute to those in our armed forces community who continue to live under threat here; they deserve our gratitude for all they do to protect us.”

Antrim and Newtownabbey Ulster Unionist Mayor Leah Kirkpatrick added:

“As we mark this solemn day, we remember the bravery of Mark and Patrick, who served to protect our communities in Antrim and beyond. Tragically, their loss was compounded just two days later by the murder of Constable Stephen Carroll, whose memory is still held dearly across our Borough.”

Dr Steve Aiken OBE MLA concluded:

“Seventeen years on, the enduring legacy of Sappers Quinsey and Azimkar serves as a beacon of resilience against terrorism. Yet we must confront the reality that some in Northern Ireland still seek to glamorise or defend such acts of violence, underscoring our duty to preserve their legacy.”