Package sparks Stormont security alert
A package containing a suspicious powder substance addressed to former Sinn Féin Mayor of Belfast Alex Maskey tonight sparked a security alert at Stormont.
Police and a fire crew were summoned to Parliament Building to deal with the package addressed to the new Assembly member for South Belfast.
Sinn Féin sources confirmed that the party’s administration room was sealed off after Mr Maskey opened a package which had been sent to him at Belfast City Hall which he had brought to Parliament Building.
A source said: “When it was opened earlier this evening, a suspicious white powdery substance fell out.
“Alex was not in any way hurt but the alarm was raised and our offices have been sealed off.”
Party sources said they believe it may have been sent by anti-Good Friday Agreement hardliners.
It is understood Sinn Féin literature from last week’s election has been defaced and returned to several party candidates in recent days.
A security alert took place after Assembly members elected last Wednesday visited Stormont to take part in party meetings and to familiarise themselves with their offices.
Sinn Féin last week emerged the largest nationalist party with 24 seats, increasing its representation by six.
The Rev Ian Paisley’s Democratic Unionists secured 30 seats and became the largest party, overtaking David Trimble’s Ulster Unionists.
The emergency services were still at Stormont tonight and were believed to be examining the powdery substance.
