Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council has approved a proposal to explore additional support for councillors facing online threats and abuse.

A motion passed at the council's corporate committee meeting condemned a social media post targeting Lisburn North Councillor Gary Hynds.

The post suggested it was possible to track Councillor Hynds to his home address.

Councillor Nicola Parker proposed the council work with the Northern Ireland Local Government Association and the National Association of Councillors to identify further measures to protect elected representatives.

Parker highlighted that threats and abuse are a particular concern for women ahead of an election year.

A recent Northern Ireland Local Government Association report found that 66 per cent of responding councillors had experienced abuse or intimidation on social media.

Councillor Ryan Carlin reported being chased by up to 30 people in 2019.

Lisburn's Chief Inspector Rocks said police would continue efforts to ensure politicians can carry out their roles without fear or intimidation.

The National Association of Councillors has criticised the Department for Communities Minister for lacking a plan to protect local government members from intimidation.