Health chiefs have condemned the “deplorable and racist behaviour” witnessed during rioting in Belfast over recent days, saying it has left international health workers in Northern Ireland feeling “anxious, frightened and unwelcome”.
In a joint statement, the Chief Nursing Officer Maria McIlgorm and Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride, urged any staff feeling concerned to reach out for help.
“The health and social care system in Northern Ireland is, and will continue to be, a place of welcome and support for all, regardless of culture, ethnicity or background, and we are disgusted by the despicable and violent scenes of recent days,” they said.
“We are angered that this behaviour has left some of our staff feeling anxious, frightened, and unwelcome. We want to reassure those staff that this behaviour is not representative of Northern Ireland, nor the people who live here.”
It follows comments from an Indian nurse in Belfast, who said she would be leaving Northern Ireland as she felt unsafe travelling to work.
Wishing to remain anonymous, she told the BBC: “I’m not going out; I’m working, and we are all frightened.
“We can’t go out shopping. It’s scary to go out with children. It’s really terrifying.
“When my contract is finished, I will go back to my country. I will go back to India.”
A spokesperson from the Public Health Agency also said they were “appalled” by the race-related violence and attacks, and were acutely aware of the fear and worry it would caused for many people.
“Our work as the lead body for public health in Northern Ireland supports newcomer communities, groups working with people from a range of ethnic backgrounds, and people who are seeking asylum, and we understand the impact that the violence and disorder will have on so many people,” they said.
“The Agency Board want to assure our partners of our support at this time and understand the concern that the recent racist attacks and intimidation will cause among you and those with whom you work.
“The health service and its partners are fortunate to have a diverse and dedicated workforce and volunteer base and it is vital for the health of our population that this is protected and maintained.”
As a nurse I’m heartbroken to hear our brilliant internationally educated nursing colleagues are leaving here. Every nurse delivers unconditional safety critical care and health and care services will collapse without our international nursing and healthcare staff. These criminal…
— Pat Cullen MP (@patcullen9) August 7, 2024
Earlier, Sinn Féin MP and former Royal College of Nursing boss Pat Cullen said she was “heartbroken” that international nurses were leaving and called for the “criminal violent and racist attacks” to stop.
Stormont health minister Mike Nesbitt also said he was saddened and appalled that some staff felt “vulnerable and unwelcome”.
“We recognise and appreciate the role you play in our communities and are grateful for the vital contribution you make to patients and society every day,” he said.
“We must all stand together to reject the reprehensible behaviour and violence we have seen in recent days – there can be no justification for racism or xenophobia.
“I am very proud of the diversity within our health service and want all staff to know that you have my full support.”
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has reiterated his support for health and social care staff following recent racist attacks and intimidation in Northern Ireland.https://t.co/4FlWiyFok6 pic.twitter.com/8yH0k77866
— Department of Health (@healthdpt) August 6, 2024
