25 April 2012

Ford Debates Hate Crime With Schools

Justice Minister David Ford today took part in a video conference with schoolchildren across Northern Ireland to discuss hate crime.

Using the video conferencing technology available through the schools' C2K computer network more than 40 Year 8 students from schools in Dungannon, Glengormley, Enniskillen and Belfast were able to ask the Minister questions on how the justice system is tackling hate crime.

Mr Ford praised the students for the level of debate and said it was clear that they had researched the subject and the impact of hate crime upon society.

He said: "The students have done their homework, as was evident by the mature understanding of hate crime, its impact on individuals, communities and wider society."

The Minister told students that to have a shared future society must be tolerant of differing views and cultures and that hate crime in all its forms must be challenged.

He said:"Diversity is something to be embraced, respected and celebrated. Being different is not something that should be feared.

"I hope that the students I spoke with today will take with them the clear message that hate crime in all its forms is wrong and must be challenged.

"Our society craves for a shared future. We all have a right to live free from fear and prejudice but we all have to play our part by ensuring that what we say and do is respectful of others."

(CD/GK)