Stormont recall: First Minister calls for an end to 'racist hate'

First Minister Michelle O'Neill has called for an end to racism.

Speaking after an Executive meeting ahead of Stormont being recalled today (Thursday) to discuss a near week or disorder in Belfast, Ms O'Neill said there was "no place" in Northern Ireland for racism in any form.

And she called on political leaders to unite with "one voice".

"We are unequivocally collective in our determination to say no to racism, and stand firmly united in terms of what we see unfolding in front of us," she said.

"There is no place in our society for racism in any of its forms. The racist attacks on people, on businesses and homes are absolutely wrong, and have created such a deep fear. A fear that I think perhaps none of us have every seen before among many parts of our community.

"There are many people feeling extremely vulnerable, feeling fearful, fearful for their families.

"We have mothers who are afraid to walk their children to the park, we have children who are afraid to go to youth clubs and to schemes. We have healthcare workers that are afraid to go to work. We have nurses that are afraid to go home and that is not acceptable.

"That is the real, human impact of this type of activity, this type of racist activity in our society. It speaks volumes in terms of hate because that is what it is and it must stop.

"Those responsible must and will face the full rigours of the force of the law."said it is important for political leaders to speak with "one voice" following scenes of violent disorder on the streets of Belfast.

Earlier, a number of groups gathered under the banner of 'united against racism' outside Stormont (main pic)

Ms O'Neill said it was important politicians stood together.

"Ultimately, that's what this is about," she said.

"Today, we are going to have a meeting of the Executive. All parties will be represented, we have the (PSNI) Chief Constable (Jon Boutcher) in attendance, we will also do a press conference directly afterwards.

"For me, this is about that strongest of political voice to say no to racism, no to violence, no to the intimidation of our local community and yes to an inclusive society.

"These people who are involved in violent activity do not speak for us. Never have and never will."

Ms O'Neill was joined by deputy first minister, Emma Little Pengelly and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher at Stormont Castle.

In a statement later, the Executive said: "As an Executive, we stand united in our call for an end to the violence, disorder and racist attacks.

"All criminality will be addressed with a zero-tolerance approach. We all see the devastating impact these attacks have had on victims, their families and our communities. Those involved in violence, intimidation, in causing chaos and destruction, will be dealt with by the full force of the law.

"People are entitled to take part in peaceful protests and to raise concerns, but there is no justification for racism in any form or for acts of violence and destruction.

"We welcome the briefing from the Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher. The PSNI have our full support.

"We acknowledge the challenges facing the PSNI and the request for additional funding to help them meet the demands on their officers.

"We will be working across our departments and agencies in our response and we will continue to press the Treasury for fair funding to deliver the best possible public services.

"It is important that we recognise the significant and positive contribution of minority ethnic people within our health service, economic, public, political, social, and cultural life.

"Everyone who lives here deserves to be part of and benefit from a fair and inclusive society where everyone is made to feel safe and welcome."