Robinson and McGuinness condemn violence

First Minister Rt Hon Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have condemned last night’s rioting in East Belfast and bomb attack on a police vehicle in West Belfast.
~ Tuesday, 21 June 2011

The Ministers said that the violent rioting of recent days was entirely unacceptable and will meet with the Chief Constable and the Minister for Justice later today.

Mr Robinson said: "At this time when many are working hard to build a better and brighter future for all in Northern Ireland it is disappointing and deeply concerning to see this level of violence return to our streets. In May, an overwhelming majority reaffirmed their desire to see a more stable and peaceful Northern Ireland. I would call on all those involved in this violence to desist immediately.

"We have given clear commitments to continue to deliver progress for all within the community including in those areas most at need. This type of behaviour damages the local economy and unfairly mars the reputation of the community. The international profile of Northern Ireland has never been higher than it is now rioting like this does our reputation real damage.”

Mr McGuinness said: "In recent years we have made tremendous progress in dealing with interface violence and I am determined that this progress will not be undone by these acts of violence and recent rioting in East Belfast.

"A small minority of individuals are clearly determined to destabilise our communities.  They will not be allowed to drag us back to the past.

"I call on all those involved to take a step back and to remain calm. I support the efforts of community leaders on all sides who have been working on the ground to restore calm in East Belfast. All those in both communities should use their influence to keep the streets safe over the next few nights.

"We need to ensure that tensions are not raised over the coming weeks, and I will do everything I can to assist community leaders in their efforts to bring calm to the streets.”

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