Rise in racist attacks 'slowing'

There were 453 racist attacks during 2003-2004

The rate of increase in racist attacks in Northern Ireland appears to be slowing down, according to the criminal justice minister.

John Spellar said while crimes had increased significantly over several years, that rise seemed to be on a downward trend.

His remarks on Friday were in an answer to a written parliamentary question.

Latest figures show that in the first six months of the period 2004-2005, there were 312 racist attacks. Of these, 51 were on members of the Chinese community.

Overall, there were 453 racist attacks during 2003-2004, with 100 of these against the Chinese community.

The government was working on many fronts to tackle the problem, said Mr Spellar.

While crimes have increased significantly over a number of years, I am pleased to report that the rate of increase in the number of attacks appears to be slowing down John Spellar Criminal justice minister

"Action is being taken at operational and strategic levels by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, government departments and through funding of the voluntary sector," he said.

"Government are committed to eradicating all manifestations of hatred, and will be unceasing in their efforts to create a safer and more tolerant Northern Ireland.

"The attacks on people from minority communities are unacceptable and to be deplored. They are an issue for all sections of society in Northern Ireland."

Some recent media reports "would lead observers to the conclusion that Northern Ireland has become a hotbed of racial intolerance", said the minister.

"However, this is not the case. It is frequently only the bad news that is reported, not the work going on behind the scenes to promote integration and tolerance.

"And while crimes have increased significantly over a number of years, I am pleased to report that the rate of increase in the number of attacks appears to be slowing down."

Meanwhile, the police said they are treating an attack on a house in the Waterside area of Londonderry on Thursday night as racially motivated.

Windows were smashed at the house at Pelham Road at about 2000 BST.

Four Polish immigrant workers - who are related - live in the house.

The married couple and two brothers were not hurt.

Caitriona Cordulla from the local Polish Welfare Association said it was not the first time they had been targeted.

She said they felt they had no option but to move.