Statement by TUV Newry and Armagh candidate Barrie Halliday:

“Once again Northern Ireland has been plunged into mourning by the brutal murder of a police officer by Republican terrorists. The thoughts and prayers of all decent people are with the family at this time.

“It is, however, important to remember that murder didn’t just become wrong post 1998. It was always wrong to kill members of the security services - and civilians for that matter as well.

“While campaigning in Newry and Armagh I have met many people who find the GAA’s reaction to this murder hard to square with their stance on the murders of hundreds of RUC officers.

“The GAA should immediately break all links with terror. Grounds and competitions which are named after Republican criminals should be renamed. Once we reach that stage, and only then, will many people believe that the GAA is a truly reformed organisation.”