Ulster Unionist Policing Board spokesperson, Ross Hussey MLA, has welcomed today’s announcement by the Police of a new dedicated reporting line for hate crime.
Mr Hussey said:
“Like all right-thinking people I have been horrified and disgusted at the spate of racist attacks on people and property.
“Such actions do not reflect the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland who are renowned for their hospitality and their generous spirit and who simply wish to live in peace and harmony with all their neighbours, regardless of colour, creed or nationality.
“I therefore very much welcome the Police action in launching a dedicated reporting line for hate crime to be accessed via the non-emergency 101 number. I fully support its twin aims of addressing under reporting, and encouraging the general public to help police by reporting any knowledge or suspicions they have of this cowardly activity.
“I also support the discussions between the Police and Belfast City Council working towards a Belfast 'Charter' against racism to could set out the support/response that victims would get in any part of City.
“We are seeking to build a shared future here, so that the Northern Ireland of tomorrow is a place which is welcoming to all. We have come so far to emerge from decades of sectarian conflict and we simply cannot allow a tiny element to seek to attempt to replace that conflict with racial division or intolerance.”