SF MLA Davy Hyland deselected for assembly election

SF MLA for Newry and Armagh Davy Hyland has been deselected by the party for the next assembly election. He’s been commenting on the move on BBC TalkBack[should still be online, late in the programme] referencing the ongoing policing discussions and he also mentioned being “forced to stand down” previously as a councillor for Newry Town. He said he would be considering his position within the party and, interestingly, when asked if he would now stand as an independent candidate he replied that he had been left with no choice but to consider that route. Update BBC reportFrom the BBC report

Sinn Fein MLA Davy Hyland has said he is surprised and saddened at being de-selected as a candidate for the forthcoming Assembly election.

Mr Hyland, who represents Newry and Armagh, said he was now considering whether to stand as an independent.

He said he had disagreements on local issues with Sinn Fein and accused them of moving too quickly on policing.

“It’s difficult for us to get our heads round some of the things being requested of us,” he said.

“Meetings with Hugh Orde in Stormont still seem maybe a step too far for many people.”

Mr Hyland said more discussion was needed on the issue.

“My experience and my family’s experience of policing in the north hasn’t been a very good one, like many other republicans,” he said.

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