Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kinahan has condemned the paint bomb attack which took place last night on the Belfast Islamic Centre.

The South Antrim MLA, who is Chair of the Assembly’s All-Party Group on Ethnic Minorities, said:

 “Like every righty-thinking person I was absolutely horrified at the barbaric murder of Drummer Lee Rigby of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in Woolwich on Wednesday.

That murder was the result of hatred, fanaticism, intolerance and prejudice. They are alien to British values and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

I would also like to condemn last night’s paint-bomb attack on the Belfast Islamic Centre at Wellington Park in the south of the city. That attack was also the result of prejudice and hatred and does nothing to help any section of our society.

We must all realise the major contribution made to Northern Ireland by ethnic minority communities. They play a key role in all walks of life, not least the health service and many skilled professions and trades.

They are entitled to the warm welcome for which the Northern Ireland people are famous, as well as the tolerance and respect which should be shown to every single individual and community.    

If the concept of a truly shared future is to become a reality, it must include everyone who lives here, regardless of religious or ethnic background, or country of birth.

I would therefore appeal for everyone to remain calm and to show tolerance, respect and understanding to everyone in our society. Incidents like the attack on the Islamic centre help absolutely no-one and only serve the agenda of those who murdered Lee Rigby in an attempt to create and exploit divisions. They must not be allowed to win.”