North Belfast: Young family fled home following sectarian bomb threats

North Belfast: Young family fled home following sectarian bomb threats

In north Belfast, local politicians are actively working towards finding solutions to racist and sectarian attacks in the area. Recently, a young mother from the Catholic community had to flee her home with her children due to sectarian abuse. This incident occurred in the Lower Oldpark area, where a number of homes were targeted in racially motivated crimes. Following these events, politicians and community representatives held a meeting at the Girdwood community hub, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and other agencies in attendance.

The mother, who chose to remain anonymous out of fear for her family’s safety, lived in a new development on Annalee Street. She recounted how her children were threatened in a park by adults, who warned them to leave or face consequences. Later, the family received threats of their home being attacked with pipe bombs, leading them to flee in fear. Despite having good relationships with neighbors, the mother expressed feeling devastated about leaving her new home after waiting for years to secure it for her children.

The Sinn Féin MP, John Finucane, hosted a multi-agency meeting to address the recent racist and sectarian attacks. At the meeting, all cross-community representatives received reassurances from the police regarding their response to the incidents. Finucane emphasized the need for consequences for those engaging in sectarian or racist behavior, especially if there is an organized paramilitary involvement. Alliance Party MLA Nuala McAllister acknowledged the progress made at the meeting but highlighted the ongoing work required to ensure residents feel safe and protected.

Representatives from Clanmil Housing also attended the meeting to collaborate with the PSNI, local community, and political representatives to ensure the safety and inclusivity of homes in Annalee Street and Alloa Street. Meanwhile, a victim of a recent racist attack, Sia Fey, expressed her determination to remain in her north Belfast home despite the traumatic incident. Fey’s home was targeted, along with two other houses in the area, in incidents that are being investigated by the police for potential links

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