NI Political Leaders Express Sympathy After Bomb Attack In Manchester

Northern Ireland political parties have expressed shock and sympathy following a bomb attack in Manchester.

Twenty-two people were killed and 59 were injured in the suspected suicide bombing at Manchester Arena on Monday night, 22 May.

Belfast City Council is to open a book of condolence for the victims.

Sinn Féin leader in the north Michelle O'Neill said: "The attack at the Manchester arena which has left 22 dead and injured so many others was horrific and I condemn it. 

"I, like many others, watched with shock and horror as the events unfolded overnight and the scale of this terrible attack became known. 

"For something like that to happen while young people are out enjoying themselves is unthinkable. 

"My thoughts are with the families and friends of all those who have lost loved ones and those who were injured, as well as the emergency services who attended the scene of this tragedy."

Alliance leader Naomi Long said: "My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Manchester, particularly the bereaved and injured. My deepest thanks also go to the emergency services, who had to deal with the aftermath. 

Those behind these attacks cannot be allowed to win. They try to threaten our very way of life but in doing so, inspire people to show the best of humanity by presenting generosity and compassion. That is proof good will triumph over evil."

UUP leader Robin Swann said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured in the attack at the Manchester Arena last night. This was a barbaric attack on our young people and families out for an evening of entertainment. It is an attempt to destroy our way of life and will not succeed. We stand united with the people of Manchester to face down the terrorists who carried out this cowardly act. As a parent I can only imagine the hurt and pain which the parents of the children killed and injured are going through. I hope they gain strength to carry them through the dark days ahead and wish a speedy recovery to those injured."

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said: "This was a heartbreaking act of barbarism.

"Today is a day for unity of purpose, not party political difference. I have therefore suspended the SDLP's election campaign for 24 hours as a mark of respect. 

"The people of Ireland understand the tragic pain of loss that those in Manchester are feeling. We stand with the people of Manchester today, unbroken, unbowed and resolutely determined to defeat those responsible."

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: "The attacker, I can confirm, died at the arena. We believe the attacker was carrying an improvised explosive device which he detonated causing this atrocity.

"We would ask people not to speculate on his details or to share names. There is a complex and wide ranging investigation underway.

"There remains a large cordon in place around Manchester Arena and Victoria Train Station which will be in place for some time. The station will remain closed while a detailed forensic search is underway. People should plan their route to work and follow Transport for Greater Manchester for updates on social media.

"Terrorists attempt to disrupt our lives and create distrust and fear in communities. We have a long history in Greater Manchester of communities standing together during difficult times. In the coming days we will be working closely with community leaders to address any issues."

(CD)