22/07/2003

Seminars aim to tackle racial problem

NIO Minister, John Spellar has announced a number of public meetings aimed at tackling racial equality issues in Northern Ireland.

Highlighting the need to involve the public in determining how best to improve race relations, Mr Spellar said the seminars would enable the general public discuss how to tackle the root causes of racial inequalities within Northern Ireland society.

He added said: “Crime motivated by hate is abhorrent and damages not only the victim but also the community as a whole. The recent attacks on members of minority ethnic communities are very disturbing and we all must work together to eradicate this cancer before it poisons our society.

“By listening to views from as many people as possible, we can build a Race Equality Strategy - owned by the whole community – for the whole community. We want to ensure that this consultation is as broadly-based and inclusive as possible and I would urge everyone to attend the forthcoming seminars which provide an ideal opportunity to help influence Government Policy on Race Equality.''

The three seminars will take place in Londonderry on July 24, Dungannon on July 28 and Belfast on July 29. Each will commence at 2.00pm.

(MB)

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