Northern Ireland's Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, has strongly condemned recent racist violence and extended his full support to international colleagues working across the Health & Social Care (HSC) system.

The Minister acknowledged the impact of recent incidents: "The actions of recent days have no doubt left some members of our HSC family feeling frightened and vulnerable."

Mr Nesbitt underscored the critical contribution of international staff to the region's healthcare. "It is well accepted within Health and Social Care that without our international colleagues, the health service would collapse," he warned.

He further emphasised the positive influence these individuals have: "The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services and enrich our communities with their diversity." Reflecting on his time in office, Minister Nesbitt highlighted his appreciation for internationally recruited healthcare workers. "Since taking up the post of Health Minister last year, I have had the privilege of meeting healthcare staff right across Northern Ireland, including many of our internationally recruited colleagues who have brought their skills, experience and expertise to our health service. They are greatly needed, very much appreciated and highly valued. They are deeply welcome here and their health, safety and wellbeing are of paramount importance."

The Minister affirmed the right of all individuals to live without fear: "People should be entitled to live in peace, free from harm and intimidation, and I stand against this reprehensible, racist and xenophobic behaviour."

He concluded by reiterating Northern Ireland's commitment to supporting its international recruits. "Northern Ireland has a proud reputation of providing excellent pastoral care and practical support for our international recruits. HSC employers will continue to provide support for staff as needed and those who are feeling concerned and vulnerable should reach out for help."