Junior Ministers Speak out Against Hate Crime

Junior Ministers Robin Newton and Gerry Kelly today spoke at Belfast City Council’s, Unite against Hate convention, which aimed to focus on the root causes of hate crime and reinforce the message that it will not be tolerated by our society.

Speaking at the convention in the Waterfront Hall, Belfast, Junior Minister Kelly said: “This convention provides an important opportunity for each of us to say that there is no place for inequality, intolerance, prejudice or hate in our society.”

Junior Minister Newton added: “Government can, and will, take the lead and set an example. However, each of us has an individual responsibility to challenge racism, sectarianism and intolerance wherever we see it. This campaign and this convention, offers us an opportunity to do so and to be heard.”

The event, which was chaired by television presenter Noel Thompson, provided an opportunity for attendees to hear local, national and international perspectives on hate crime and to have their say in a range of workshops.

Notes to Editors:

1. This convention, Belfast City Council’s second annual convention on hate crime, is forming part of the wider Unite Against Hate campaign, which was officially launched by Junior Ministers Newton and Kelly on 1 September 2009.

2. The Unite against Hate campaign is being supported by a range of organisations including OFMDFM, PSNI, the Equality Commission and the NIO. The campaign is also being supported by the Gaelic Athletic Association, the Irish Football Association, Ulster Rugby, and the Irish Rugby Football Union. A range of events will be held under the banner. Further details are available at www.uniteagainsthate.org.uk.

3. All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1905. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.