Anti-immigration protests that have taken place in Belfast in recent days have been condemned by politicians in the two Co Armagh council areas.
The city was the scene of disorder over the weekend and into Monday night, following an anti-immigration protest, and saw a number of businesses being destroyed.
Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council has signalled its intention to hold a special meeting to condemn those behind the violence and show support for minority communities.
Sinn Féin councillor Catherine Nelson commented: “The Mayor of our council, Sinn Féin councillor Sarah Duffy, has agreed to hold a special meeting of the council to unreservedly condemn and deplore the recent racist attacks and intimidation in Belfast.
“There is no place for racism, hatred, discrimination or intimidation anywhere in our society.”
The violence was also condemned at Monday’s meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
Sinn Féin councillor Aoife Finnegan said: “At last night’s meeting of Newry Mourne & Down Council, Sinn Féin unreservedly condemned and deplored the recent racist attacks and intimidation in Belfast.
She added: “As a council, we must commit to working together with all councils, government departments, the Executive and the police to oppose racism and continue building a shared, peaceful and inclusive society.”
Meanwhile, the Alliance Party has submitted a recall petition for the Assembly to discuss a motion regarding the disorder.
Alliance Upper Bann MLA Eóin Tennyson condemned the scenes.
“What we saw in Belfast on Saturday was criminal damage carried out with a clear racial motivation. This wanton destruction is rejected by the people of the city, who stand with the victims against thuggery,” he said.
“Such attacks are the result of hate being stirred up on an ongoing basis, those carrying out the violence did not represent Northern Ireland.
“Our political leaders now have to act decisively. The First Minister and deputy First Minister need to reverse the de-prioritisation of good relations work, urgently bring forward the draft Race Relations Order, expedite the development of a renewed Racial Equality Strategy and to recognise the genuine sense of fear and dread now experienced by individuals and families who have made Belfast their home.
“We also need to see urgent and decisive action to bring those who committed such destruction to justice.”
