An Aontú Cllr in Northern Ireland says he was physically attacked over his pro-life views.

Emmet Doyle, a member of Derry City & Strabane District Council issued a statement following an assault on him on Friday.

“Whilst in the city centre in the early hours of Friday morning I suffered a vicious assault in Waterloo Street,” Cllr Doyle said.

“After entering a food establishment alone, a group of people entered, some of whom I recognised to be members of a group deeply opposed to my stance on the right to life.  They engaged me verbally and I left with my order.

“On leaving the premises I was accosted and received a cut to my head, bruises and black eyes. The attack was unprovoked.

He added: “As an elected representative, I passionately defend what I believe in and act on behalf of constituents regardless of their views. . . . Nothing will stop me serving my constituents, I won’t be silenced.”