PSNI Holds Urgent Meeting On North Belfast Hate Crime Incidents

The PSNI's District Policing Command has hosted a urgent meeting of the North Belfast District Policing and Community Safety Partnership to address an increase in reports of anti-social behaviour and hate incidents in the North Belfast area.

Partners who attended include the Education Authority, Belfast City Council, Educator’s, the Department of Justice, as well as community representatives, elected members, youth service providers, our Police and Community Safety Partnership and others.

Chief Inspector Alan Lowry said: "While many young people behave responsibly, unfortunately, the behaviour of some can have a significant impact on the local community.

"However, I want to assure the community in north Belfast that we liaise on a regular basis with a number of partner agencies, working collectively to prevent hate crimes and anti-social behaviour which at times leads to criminal behaviour and to detect and deter those involved.

"We regularly issue appeals, asking parents and guardians to ensure they know where their children are, what they are doing and who they are with. We have also consistently warned that what might seem like fooling about can often result in a criminal record, which can affect future choices and opportunities for young people. It is really important that young people understand this. "Everyone deserves to live in peace and to enjoy their homes and public spaces. To those who become involved in the behaviour we have recently seen, I am asking them to stop and think about the harm and damage you're inflicting on the community when you choose to be a part of this type of reckless activity, there is no place in our communities for hate or sectarian behaviour.

"Not only are you putting yourself in danger by becoming involved in activity but, if you are detected by police, you will face consequences that can be far-reaching and could seriously impact on your future opportunities for work and travel.

"We are committed to continuing to work alongside our partner agencies, including local representatives and the community to address the issue, it is really important to me that we all work together to address local issues."

Chair of North Belfast District Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Cllr Conor Maskey, said: "We continue to engage with our partner organisations, such as the PSNI and community stakeholders, to offer support in tackling antisocial behaviour at interface areas. There is no place for hate or sectarianism in our city and we will continue to work closely with all those involved in trying to bring an end to violence and disruption."

Anyone with any information in relation to anti-social behaviour is asked to call us on the non-emergency number 101, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Or via 999 in an emergency. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/