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Following the passing of a motion by the Northern Ireland Assembly calling on the Executive Office to carry out a comprehensive review of the racist attacks that happened over the summer, Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime Geraldine Hanna said:
“I was pleased to see the motion passed by the Assembly today calling for a comprehensive review into what happened, who was involved and what can be done to prevent something like this happening again in the future.
“Racially motivated hate crime has a devastating impact on victims and over the summer we saw a wave of violence that was truly shocking.
“I have previously raised concerns that, as violent clashes in Belfast city centre no longer dominate the front pages of our newspapers, there is a risk that we miss the opportunity to learn longer-term lessons to help us support victims and prevent future incidents.
“To be effective any review should be independent and led by someone who commands the respect of ethnic minority communities in Northern Ireland.
“It should also be rapid, to demonstrate the Executive’s determination to act quickly.
“Such a review could be an important step in reassuring victims of hate crime that our political leaders will learn from the past and act in the future. What is needed now is action from the Executive.”