Concern As Foreign Nationals 'Flee'

Thursday 9 April 2009

SDLP Justice Spokesperson Alban Maginness has expressed his sadness and concern at the claim that over 40 foreign nationals have fled their homes in Belfast following the world cup riots last month.

He said: "As Irish men and women we know what it is like to go to other countries and settle.

"It is such a shame that these people have felt the need to flee from their homes in Belfast following the good work that has been done to create good community relations in the area.

"Foreign nationals have played an invaluable role in developing our local economies and I hope that the isolated events which occurred last month will not deter any further Eastern Europeans from living and working in our city."

ENDS

Further information:
Alban Maginness MLA 07890 878955
Or SDLP Press Office 028 9052 1364