Gordon Lyons: DUP minister defends assembly group linked to paramilitaries

He was also questioned by SDLP MP Daniel McCrossan about meeting with the LCC ahead of other groups.

Lyons denied that he was prioritizing the meeting with the LLC over other organizations that had requested discussions but were rebuffed.

He said he has received a total of 763 invitations from groups to events and meetings since taking office and has accepted 395 of them.

The minister also revealed he is planning a meeting with the GAA next Thursday to discuss the redevelopment of Casement Park in Belfast.

Earlier this month, DUP MLA and Education Minister Paul Givan was criticized for his meeting with the LCC after turning down 205 meetings with other groups and organisations.