The East Antrim MLA was speaking after the discovery of a suspicious object led to homes being evacuated in the Albert Road area of the town.
He said: “While it is relieving the suspicious object turned out to be nothing untoward, it was through the effective work of everyone involved which brought a quick end to this alert.
“While it was distressing for those having to leave their homes, the precautionary measure allowed a thorough investigation of the scene to take place.”