First ever Honorary Indian Consul appointed in NI

India has appointed the first ever Honorary Indian Consul in Northern Ireland.

Diljit Rana, who takes up his post after being appointed by his country's President, will also head up the first Honorary Indian Consul within the UK.

Commenting on the appointment at a special ceremony at Belfast's Ramada Hotel, Secretary of State, Paul Murphy said the honour being bestowed upon Mr Rana Diljit was a great recognition not only at a personal level but also to the Indian community that lives and works in Northern Ireland.

"The decision by the President of India to appoint an Honorary Consul in Northern Ireland, the first Honorary Indian Consul within the UK, reflects the importance of the role that the Indian community plays here at all levels," Mr Murphy.

"I welcome the decision to appoint an Honorary Consul here as a real indication of the what the Indian community has given to the people of Northern Ireland and of the role that it is playing in day to day life".

Mr Murphy also recognised the difficulties facing ethnic communities in Northern Ireland and, in particular the recent spate of attacks. He said: "Of course, recent news has been dominated by racist attacks in our local community which are to be condemned outright. I welcome the priority given by the Policing Board to dealing with these attacks as part of its third annual Policing Plan which was published today.

"I also welcome the publication last month of the Criminal Justice Order by my colleague John Spellar to tackle so called 'hate crimes' which will see much needed changes to legislation here in Northern Ireland, strengthening the law to tackle crime motivated by hatred".

The Secretary of State highlighted the role played by Diljit Rana in the local business community and the benefits that had been brought to the local economy. "Diljit has used his excellent business knowledge and strong network of contacts to develop a wide ranging portfolio of commercial activities across Northern Ireland which has benefited many of us who live and work here.

"I believe his appointment is worthy recognition of all that he has done and I have no doubt that he will carry out his new role with a great sense of civic and personal duty," he concluded.

(MB)