Robinson and McGuinness to meet Romanian Ambassador

First Minister Peter D Robinson MP, MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA are due to hold talks today with the Romanian Ambassador to the UK, Dr Ion Jinga, who will arrive in Belfast this afternoon, and the Romanian Consul General, Dr Mihai Delcea, to discuss the recent racist attacks on Belfast's Romanian community.

The meeting, which will take place at Stormont Castle, will discuss possible measures to alleviate the current situation.

Speaking ahead of the meeting Mr Robinson said: "I am determined that, having received the worst possible treatment by a small minority in Northern Ireland, the Romanian community will see the true multicultural nature of the majority of the people of Northern Ireland. We will do everything in our power to ensure they receive the care they need. Today's meeting is a signal to those who perpetrated these attacks that the Northern Ireland Executive represents every single member of our community regardless of race or culture."

Mr McGuinness said: "This is a time when we must display our support for these families and, by our actions, show that we stand united in our opposition and disgust in face of the naked racism which has tarnished the good name of our people.

"We also want to assure Dr Jinga that we are doing all we can to bring these racist criminals to justice."