Justice Minister Naomi Long has offered assurances to minority ethnic communities in Northern Ireland during a visit to the Belfast Islamic Centre, emphasising that the justice system is working to support and protect those who feel vulnerable.

Minister Long said: "I wish to offer my wholehearted reassurance that we are committed to supporting and protecting members of the Muslim community and minority ethnic communities.

"These communities make a very valuable contribution to student life, our workforce and our public services, as well as enhancing the diversity of culture and society here and strengthening opportunities for intercultural dialogue.

"I appreciate that these are difficult times for minority ethnic communities, and I recognise that people may be feeling at risk from a targeted attack. I hope you can have confidence in the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and in their commitment to protecting everyone in our society in very challenging circumstances.

"My Department is committed to playing its part in delivering a safer community for all, including victims of race hate crimes - in partnership with others in Government and civil society."

During the visit, the Minister met members of the Muslim community and heard about the centre's work to support people across Belfast. Vice Chair Dr Wasif Naeem said: "There is a lot of anxiety among the migrant and ethnic minority communities. A lot of issues are being directed at the Muslim community. "

"There is significant level of racism and Islamophobia being witnessed and we are concerned about the challenges we are facing. We really appreciate that the Minister has come and listened to our concerns and we hope that we will start to see things getting better. At Belfast Islamic Centre, we always invite people to come to us and to have open conversations with the Muslim community. This is how we are going to move forward in the future." The Minister outlined a package of measures to tackle hate crime and help victims. She pointed to provisions in the Sentencing Bill and the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill aimed at modernising hate crime law in Northern Ireland, strengthening sanctions for offenders and sending a clear message that such offending will not be tolerated.

She also highlighted the Hate Crime Advocacy Service (HCAS), which supports victims through the criminal justice process, directs them to relevant services and can help with third-party reporting to the PSNI. In addition, the Hate Incident Practical Action (HIPA) Scheme operates across Northern Ireland to support people targeted by hate incidents at their homes. Individuals may also be able to seek compensation under the Criminal Damage Compensation Scheme where protests have caused physical damage to property or vehicles.

The Minister said: "I wholly condemn the racially motivated attacks and abuse of members of minority ethnic communities and their businesses in recent weeks. We cannot have hatred on our streets. Targeting a person because of who they are or what they believe is unacceptable and, as with all forms of intolerance, is a blight on our society that needs to be addressed by all those within it.

"It is my intention to work with others to ensure that negative attitudes and behaviours are tackled, including how good relations work can be broadened to create cohesive and inclusive communities where people of all faiths and ethnicities are valued and respected."

She continued: "My Department is committed to playing its part in delivering a safer community for all, including victims of race hate crimes - in partnership with others in Government and civil society. Everyone has their part to play in tackling race hate. Depressingly, much of the violence that happened was driven by misinformation, lies and untruths.

"Ensure the information you use to make decisions about your actions and behaviour is accurate and verified. Rely on official sources, not random social media posts or media commentators with their own agenda to push."