Praise for role of festive workers
Mr Swann is UUP Spokesman on Social Economy, Energy and Consumer Affairs, while Rev Dr Coulter is the Ulster Unionist Party Assembly member for North Antrim and UUP Stormont Commissioner.
In their joint statement, the two UUP men said: “We express our heartfelt thanks to those from the emergency services who continued to work while we spent the festive period relaxing with family and friends.
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Hide Ad“These services also had to face the added challenge of the recent cold snap. Most of us regarded taking holidays over the festive period for granted, but there were thousands of people who were also hard at work during this time.
“There are many services that simply can’t just grind to a halt - for such workers, the festive period doesn’t make any difference to their daily routine.
“We also recognize that although many enjoyed a white Christmas, local council workers experienced a very different sight as they went out to grit the roads in some of the coldest weather North Antrim has suffered for many years.
“It is important that we demonstrate our clear support and gratitude to the emergency services across Northern Ireland.
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Hide Ad“The invaluable work of the police, ambulance services, hospital staff and fire brigades all year round, and particularly during the recent holidays, must not be overlooked.
“Without their commitment, there would be many individuals in need who would be left to suffer during an otherwise happy time.”