NEWTOWNABBEY: Rathcoole estate death threats force dozens of workers to down tools

By Q Radio News

Dozens of workers have downed tools in the loyalist Rathcoole estate in Newtownabbey after death threats against them were sprayed on nearby hoardings.

They were carrying out preparatory work at Monkscoole Tower which is to be demolished to make way for social housing.

The Housing Executive has confirmed contractors withdrew from a number of sites on the estate as a result of the graffiti and other threats.

NEWTOWNABBEY: Rathcoole estate death threats force dozens of workers to down tools https://t.co/jPbIbCfx8A pic.twitter.com/6OV1lhrU8l

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A spokesperson for the Housing Executive said:

“We can confirm that contractors have had to withdraw tenant’s services, including health and safety work, from a number of sites in Rathcoole following threats to staff and graffiti targeting contractors in the area.

“The safety of our staff and contractors is paramount, and we utterly condemn this behaviour.

“We will continue to monitor situation.”

The MP for the area John Finucane says he's horrified at the development:

Meanwhile, PUP leader Billy Hutchinson says he does not believe the threat comes from paramilitaries:

(Threatening graffiti in the Rathcoole area)