Bishop condemns attacks on Romanian families

Wednesday June 17th 2009

Bishop Abernethy has condemned the racist attacks in south Belfast. The Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev Alan Abernethy, has condemned a series of racist attacks on Romanian families living in south Belfast.

The ongoing attacks on the families has resulted in more than 100 people leaving their homes and being housed in a local leisure centre.

Bishop Abernethy said: “I condemn the recent deplorable attacks on Romanian people living in south Belfast which have forced fellow human beings resident within our community to pack up their belongings and seek refuge beyond their homes.

“We, from our legacy of divisions, should know the damage which all racially motivated acts – whether words or deeds – can do and must reject such activity and thinking.”

The Bishop went on: “I commend City Church and all who have assisted those affected for demonstrating care and compassion as Christ would have us do. I also assure the Romanian families of our prayers and thoughts at this time.”