Mr Frew said:
“As an elected representative, I have campaigned hard to modernise legislation to better protect women and girls. While significant progress has been made, each week we are confronted with fresh examples that demonstrate how far we still have to go.
The Government has been warned repeatedly that more must be done. The PSNI and statutory agencies need to urgently get to grips with the challenges arising in Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and the wider consequences of illegal immigration. These are sensitive but serious issues, and Government must not look the other way.
In North Antrim, and particularly in Ballymena, I have consistently raised the alarm that people are living in fear. Sadly, my warnings have been followed by two shocking incidents of serious sexual assault on teenage girls, carried out in broad daylight. As these are live investigations, I will refrain from further comment, but the shock and fear felt across the community is real and widespread.
We must see justice done for these heinous crimes. Women and girls must be protected from those who wish them harm. This requires every arm of Government to work together with urgency, focus and purpose.
Safe streets are a must. The Government must stop dithering and act now. Failure to do so puts more women and girls at risk and further erodes public trust."