Queen’s University to close campus on Friday amid planned protests in Belfast

Queen’s University is to close its Belfast campus on Friday amid planned protests due to take place in the city.

The head of QUB also urged young people not to risk jeopardising their future by taking part in violence.

It comes as an anti-immigration protest and a counter-protest are set to be held at Belfast City Hall on Friday from 5pm.

Many businesses in Belfast city centre, many located close to city hall, said on Thursday that a decision had not yet been made if they would close early.

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But in a statement, QUB said it will close as a “precautionary measure to ensure staff and students travelling to campus are not put at any risk”.

The university said its campus, including its public facilities, will be shut on Friday with staff and students informed of interim support and learning measures.

On Wednesday, Danske Bank shut its Donegall Square West branch amid concerns for the “welfare of our colleagues” after reports of potential anti-immigration protests.

It also advised staff in their head office branch to work from home.

In a statement on Thursday, Queen’s vice-chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer made a direct appeal to young people “not to put their personal futures at risk by partaking in violence and disruption”.

“At Queen’s, we abhor violence and condemn without reservation islamophobia, racism and xenophobia in all forms,” he said.

“As a university community, we are committed to diversity, equality, inclusion and belonging, and to our campus being a safe, secure environment for all staff and students.

“I urge young people who might become involved in violence to understand that the biggest threat to your future prospects does not come from people fleeing persecution in other parts of the world, or from committed international staff who underpin the health service, or from families, like yours, who wish to live in peace and contribute to society here.

“Rather, the biggest threat to your future prospects, and the greatest threat to your safety, comes from those who believe that violence is the answer, and that damage and destruction brings progress.

“None of this is true.

“We all want to see Belfast as a place that offers opportunities for you and your future. Violence will not achieve this.

“Progress comes through cooperation and dialogue.”

Professor Greer added: “Please do not jeopardise your future and the future of your city through misguided actions, which will damage your chances in life and damage this great city”.