Racial attacks 'on increase'

There have been a number of racist attacks in recent times

Attacks against migrant workers in Northern Ireland are multiplying, according to the Anti-Racism Network.

The comments follow a number of incidents in the province which police believe may have a racial motive.

On Monday, the home of a Lithuanian man was petrol bombed as he recovered in hospital from a previous attack.

A group of Portuguese workers in Dungannon have also been targeted and several people escaped injury in an attack on a house in the Donegall Road area of Belfast.

Davy Carlin, chairperson of the Anti-Racism Network, said people must show solidarity with the victims.

I believe that the communities where the racial attacks are happening need to stand shoulder to shoulder with the victims Davy Carlin Anti-Racism Network

"Society needs to acknowledge that racist attacks are not just happening in Belfast, but around Northern Ireland and particularly in areas of social and economic deprivation.

"Condemnations are not enough, and the community, politicians and trade unionists need to stand together collectively to voice their anger and opposition to racism.

"That must go hand in hand with dealing with the poverty in places where racism can thrive."

He added: "I believe that the communities where the racial attacks are happening need to stand shoulder to shoulder with the victims."

On Monday, SDLP assembly member Dominic Bradley said the attacks seemed to be part of a concerted campaign against ethnic minorities.

A number of racial attacks have taken place in recent months in the south Belfast area, resulting in members of ethnic minorities leaving their homes.

Police patrols in the area have been increased in response to the attacks.