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Councillors in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have universally condemned the violence that took place in Belfast at the weekend following protests by anti immigration groups.
An emergency motion was put forward by Rowallane Councillor Terry Andrews at last nights 5 August Council meeting. The motion confirmed a commitment to inclusivity and unity and condemned the violence that saw businesses destroyed in arson attacks, calling for those responsible to be made accountable.
Speaking on his motion Cllr Andrews said "Our thoughts and prayers are very much for the families, friends and community, plus the three young children who tragically lost their lives in Stockport last week. Within hours, we seen so many taking to the streets, some who showed their solidarity and offering their sympathy to the bereaved on a sad day, and there were many others who turned out not in solidarity but to engage in attacks on people from different backgrounds, shops, businesses being targeted, vandalised, looted and burned, and as the days progressed, all this spreading to other cities and towns, all adding further anguish and distress to the grieving families and friends of the three young children."
Cllr Andrews continued "Over the past few days, we've all seen on our TV screens and on the various social media platforms, cities like Belfast and other towns being targeted by hoards of thugs who didn't care about those who lost their lives, but used this as an excuse to inflate their egos and engage in thuggery, mayhem and willful destruction. Seeing the Nazi salutes with all that was going on it drew comparisons to Kristallnacht back in 1930s in Germany. Then as now, people who were perceived to be from other backgrounds and faiths were simply targeted for just being who they were. Out of all that has happened, the goodness and kindness of so many people has shown through. Residents, community, churches and other organisations, many going out of their way to reach out and help fundraising amongst others, showing and underlining the community spirit that exists and simply just being there."
Sadness
The Rowallane Councillor said he viewed the incidents with a mixture of sadness and bewilderment at how the actions of such a minority could be so evil and cruel. He criticised those who use social media to platform their bile and hatred.
Cllr Andrews concluded "For many years, many left our shores to start a new life elsewhere, going to places where they were made welcome and settled down. In recent days, as I said, 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 and reach out are fully inclusive and welcome one and all who have made and continue to make our district their home"
Inclusive society
Deputy Council Chairperson Cllr David Lee Surginor who seconded the motion said "I call on my colleagues from all parties to strongly condemn all forms of violence, racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and to reiterate our commitment together to a shared, peaceful and inclusive society throughout Northern Ireland and stand united as well."
Oppose racism
Slieve Gullion Councillor Aoife Finnegan added “There is no place for racism, hatred, discrimination or intimidation anywhere in our society.
The Motion
Newry Mourne and Down District Council, in light of the distressing scenes of violence that have unfolded in Belfast and other locations over the past few days unequivocally condemns these actions. We recognise the significant impact these events have had on our community and 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. Despite the actions of a cruel minority , we stand together as a community that embraces diversity and solidarity.
