Police in Northern Ireland received a report from Lisburn and Castlereagh City Councillor Gary Hynds over online messages suggesting his home location. The posts appeared on the platform X and referenced a travel time of a couple of hours.

Councillor Hynds stated he supports free speech and ignores most online abuse but views these comments as crossing into threats, especially from an account that glorifies republican terrorism. He reported the matter to the PSNI to have it recorded formally.

Chief Inspector Rocks of the PSNI confirmed no discussion of individual security but affirmed commitment to support politicians free from intimidation.

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council contacted Councillor Hynds to offer support and stated abuse or threats against elected members are unacceptable.

Joe Boyle, NAC Northern Ireland secretary, criticised Department for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons for lacking a protection plan for councillors facing intimidation. Boyle noted councillors often handle abuse but require structured responses including security measures.

A Department for Communities spokesperson said the minister condemns threats to councillors and asked councils via SOLACE NI to develop security schemes. The department awaits a sector-wide response.