Mr Donnelly was speaking after the Easter Rising concrete structure with a flag pole was unveiled at Hurry Head on Saturday. The ceremony was attended by Sinn Fein elected representatives, who admitted not seeking planning permission for it.
“Sinn Fein has admitted bypassing normal council planning procedures in order to construct this memorial,” said Mr Donnelly.
“This memorial commemorates an historical event important to many people in this area. However, it is disappointing they felt it necessary to proceed without planning permission from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. As I understand it, the Council was to bring this matter to its equality group but Sinn Fein refused to co-operate.
“It is particularly disappointing, given the Sinn Fein Councillor who attended this ceremony actually sits on the planning committee. They seem to think the rules don’t apply to them. This issue should have been resolved between the Council and Sinn Fein, who should have given proper consideration before walking away.
“I would also call on unionist representatives who have been quick to criticise this memorial to do so for the numerous other structures and signs, many of which have also been erected illegally, throughout East Antrim.”