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The recent racist and sectarian attacks in north Belfast and Ballymena have prompted the Northern Ireland Executive to prepare a “joint and unified statement,” as stated by the communities minister, Gordon Lyons. He dismissed allegations of political leadership failure in addressing the issue, highlighting the need for unequivocal condemnation of the violence. Lyons emphasized that while politicians have a role to play, it is the collective responsibility of society to combat such behavior.
Expressing his views on the matter, the DUP assembly member stressed that the majority of people distance themselves from such acts, underlining the involvement of only a small minority in perpetrating such violence. He reiterated the importance of not only denouncing these actions but also taking proactive measures to prevent their recurrence. Lyons called for collaborative efforts involving both Stormont departments and wider society to address the underlying issues contributing to these hate crimes.
Chief Executive at the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations, Seamus Leheny, highlighted the escalating nature of these attacks, particularly since last summer. He noted the emotional significance perpetrators attach to housing-related incidents, such as displaying ‘locals only’ signs on vacant properties. Calling for a robust response from political representatives and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Leheny emphasized the need for swift interventions and improved data sharing between relevant stakeholders to address the situation effectively.
In response to the concerning rise in racially-motivated crimes, health minister Mike Nesbitt anticipated a focused discussion on the issue during the upcoming executive meeting. Expecting a combined and collaborative statement to emerge from the session, he stressed the importance of unity in addressing and condemning these attacks. The meeting follows a series of recent incidents, including attacks on homes in both north Belfast and Ballymena, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated actions to ensure the safety and well-being of affected communities
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