03/08/2004

Maskey urges action on racist attacks

South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey has called for an urgent meeting with the Security Minister Jane Kennedy following a spate of attacks against ethnic minorities in the area.

The Sinn Fein representative called for the meeting after arsonists attacked two houses previously used by members of the ethnic minority community.

Mr Maskey said: "It is very clear that there is now a campaign in loyalist areas of south Belfast to drive members of the ethnic minority community out. Over Christmas in the Donegal Road area we witnessed two serious assaults and last night two arson attacks.

"Jane Kennedy has a responsibility here. So far we have heard nothing from her on this issue or seen no decisive action from her department. If this situation is not tackled then it is very clear that the people behind this campiagn of intimidation and violence will not stop until someone is killed."

(GB)

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