DUP MLA Edwin Poots has issued a statement over comments he made on the spread of the coronavirus.
Last week, Mr Poots said the difference in transmission of the virus between nationalist and unionist areas was "around six to one", appearing to suggest transmission of the virus was more prevalent in Catholic areas.
His comments sparked an angry reaction from the nationalist community and politicians with many calling on him to apologise.
In a statement issued this afternoon by the DUP, Mr Poots said his comments had been distorted and twisted and added that he 'cherishes his Catholic friends and neighbours.
He said: "Over the course of the last few days Sinn Fein and others have tried to distort and twist comments I made in reference to the spread of Covid-19. At no time did I attribute the spread of Covid-19 to religion. It is deeply regrettable that such a narrative has been created.
"It is obvious such spread is related to behavioural issues nothing more nothing less. I cherish my Catholic friends and neighbours. I would never intentionally use words that would cause them offence.
"Covid-19 is spread by bad behaviour such as that exemplified at the Bobby Storey funeral."
