THE council has reaffirmed its “commitment to inclusivity and unity” in the wake of the weekend’s racist violence in Belfast.
At Monday’s monthly local authority meeting, councillors unanimously endorsed an emergency notice of motion, tabled by Rowallane SDLP councillor Terry Andrews, calling for this.
The proposal asked council to unequivocally condemn ‘the distressing scenes of violence that have unfolded in Belfast and other locations over the past few days’ and to call for ‘immediate measures to hold those responsible accountable’.
‘We reaffirm our commitment to inclusivity and unity, reaching out to and welcoming all individuals who have made, and continue to make, our district their home,’ it added.
‘Despite the actions of a cruel minority, we stand together as a community that embraces diversity and solidarity.’
Speaking on his motion, Cllr Andrews said that his “thoughts and prayers are very much with the families, friends and community of the three young children who tragically lost their lives in Southport” before criticising the “widespread carnage” and “wanton free-for-all” that had taken place in Belfast and beyond.
“Over the past few days, we have all seen on our TV screens and on the various social media platforms Belfast and other towns being targeted by hordes of thugs who didn’t care about those who lost their lives, but used it as an excuse to inflate their egos and engage in thuggery, mayhem and willful destruction,” he stated.
“Seeing the Nazi salutes with all that was going on, it drew comparisons to Kristallnacht (Night of Broken Glass) back in 1930s Germany.
“Then, as now, people who were perceived to be from other backgrounds and faiths were simply targeted for just being who they were.”
The local representative added that those responsible for the violence – as well as those who “use social media to platform their bile and their hatred” – should face “the full rigours of the law”.
“In recent days, we have seen and witnessed the actions of a cruel minority, who do not represent the huge majority of people – like many in our district – who reach out, are fully inclusive and welcome one and all who have made, and continue to make, our district their home,” he said.
David Lee-Surginor (Alliance, Rowallane) seconded the proposal, and condemned the “disturbing scenes of violence and disorder”.
“I call on my colleagues from all parties to strongly condemn all forms of violence, racism, xenophobia and Islamophobia, and to reiterate our commitment together to a shared, peaceful and inclusive society throughout Northern Ireland and stand united as one,” he said.
Oonagh Hanlon (Sinn Féin, Downpatrick) stated that there is “no place in society for racism or the attacks on our minority communities that took place at the weekend”.
“As shocking as they were, the damage and the anxiety generated by these attacks will last much longer than the rubble of rioting,” she added.
“We don’t want anyone living in fear of a racist brick coming through their living room window or racist threats daubed on walls.
“We don’t want anyone walking the streets fearful of racist abuse or attack, and we certainly don’t want any of our children worrying about racist bullying at their school.”
Jonny Jackson (DUP, Rowallane) voiced his party’s support for the motion, and said that, whilst they “also recognise in any democratic society there is a right to protest”, it must be “both peaceful and lawful”.
“We support peaceful protest and people within the communities who have concerns should be able to have a discussion about issues that they face – whether that be concerns about our immigration policy or any other,” he continued.
“However, there is no justification or excuse for violence.
“Nothing is achieved by attacking people or property.”
David Taylor (UUP, Slieve Gullion) described the violence as “very concerning”.
“I certainly condemn wholeheartedly the violence that occurred,” he stated.
“It is totally unacceptable and no one should have to endure that.
“As has already been said, in any democracy, people have a right to protest, but with that right there is also a responsibility for this to be done in a completely peaceful manner.
“It is fair to say that anyone that comes to Northern Ireland to offer a positive contribution to our society, they have a right to live in peace, like any one of us would expect also.”
Bringing the discussion to a close, Cllr Andrews thanked his colleagues in the chamber for their unanimous support.
“It shows our unanimity, that we are all together as a team in sending out a simple message that we stand together as a community that embraces diversity and solidarity for all,” he said.
