UUP Community Relations spokesman condemns Racially Motivated Incident
UUP member and Community Relations Spokesperson Richard Watson has spoken out against a racially motivated incident which occurred in the Markets area of Belfast last night. (Sunday 11th)
Five teenagers, who were part of a larger group visiting Northern Ireland from India to embark on a cricket tour, where chased by a large gang of youths with sticks in the markets area of Belfast on Sunday night.
The boys were staying in the East Belfast area and decided to walk into town but became separated from each other when the gang chased them.
Mr Watson said:
“These boys are were minding their own business and looking forward to a walk into town on a nice evening when this gang started chasing them and yelling racist taunts. It’s a disgrace that visitors to Northern Ireland can’t even go on a short walk without facing this inexcusable treatment. What kind of impression will they have of Northern Ireland now?
“We are trying to turn away from these types of incidents as Northern Ireland is fast becoming a multi cultural society where everyone should be welcome. I’m only glad that these boys managed to escape unharmed and I’m thankful that this gang did not catch up with them.
“The PSNI have been working hard to get out the message that ‘Hate crime is wrong’. Obviously the message is simply not getting through. The PSNI are currently investigating this matter but more needs to be done to let these youths know that there is no place for this behaviour in our society”.