Extremists must be confronted to ensure real change: Murphy

Northern Ireland Secretary of State Paul Murphy has highlighted the importance of challenging sectarianism and racism to bring about a "real change in society".

Speaking in Belfast at a conference comparing societies in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Mr Murphy said that engaging with civic society in Northern Ireland - during a period of transition from conflict management to a process of conflict transformation - was a government priority.

He said: "Challenging sectarianism, racism and any other extremism is not only about challenging particular behaviours or attitudes; it is also about making different relationships. Real change across Northern Ireland requires leadership at political level but also at civic and community level.

"New hate crime legislation due to come into force later this month will help, but all of us across civic society should have a zero tolerance towards racism, sectarianism or any other such extremism. Enforcement action alone will not tackle the deep-seated problems to be addressed."

The conference, which was organised jointly by the Irish School of Ecumenics and the Centre for Theology and Public Issues at the University of Edinburgh, also heard that faith-based organisations could provide "vital input" into the re-shaping of Northern Irish society.

"It is vital that you, as Christian communities, continue to recognise this important role you have to play in society and in shaping the future of your communities both in Scotland and Northern Ireland," he said.

The conference comes amid reports that attacks on ethnic minorities are being planned to coincide with the anniversary of the September 11 atrocity. The alleged threats were described by South Belfast Sinn Féin Assembly member Alex Maskey as "deeply disturbing."

He said: "It is important that politicians and community leaders reassure those people from ethnic minority communities that they are safe and that they are welcome. Likewise, a message must be sent to those carrying out racist attacks that their behaviour is unacceptable and unwanted."

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tom Ekin, also condemned the threats.

He said: “I find it absolutely grotesque that any individual or organisation should wish to use the anniversary of a tragedy or a disaster in order to perpetrate further evil.

“We only have to look at the horrific events which have taken place in Russia over the past week to see the terrible results of hatred inflicted by human beings upon one another.

“I call on all right-minded people, not only in Belfast but all across Northern Ireland, to reject outright such idiotic bigotry and ostracise these racists from our society.”

(GB/GMCG)