That far-right agitators and their bigoted bedfellows aim to bring people onto the streets of Belfast again this week is not a surprise. By their own twisted logic, the protests which sparked sickening scenes of violence last weekend were a success.
It does, however, allow authorities and the wider community to be ready with a robust response that will prevent further disorder and send a clear message to those peddling hate that their actions have no support.
The potential for disorder in Belfast and other areas had been well flagged. Concerns were discussed at the Policing Board, although it was unclear if the calls for protests on social media would bring out the kind of numbers that led to widescale rioting in England.
In the event, a rally at the City Hall and an attempt to march on the city’s Islamic Centre were well policed. However, as a mob dispersed in south Belfast, business owners in the multi-cultural Botanic area were left helpless as shops identified as belonging to ethnic minorities was attacked.
Later that night, vandals were also able to go on the rampage in the Donegall Road and Sandy Row areas, attacking Muslim-owned properties in an orgy of hate.
While it is not possible for police to be everywhere, and officers were also targeted, it is right to ask why extensive experience of managing unpredictable crowds at flashpoint parades could not ensure the terrifying weekend scenes were avoided.
The reputational damage to Belfast is enormous, both in terms of those considering visiting, working or investing in the region, and for its image as a modern, cosmopolitan city that values the contribution of people of different cultures or faiths. No-one, no matter their background, should have to live in fear for their life or livelihood.
A firm message from a recalled assembly could go some way in sending a signal that violence or racism will not be tolerated in any form.
However, it is important that all politicians, including those representing areas where protests have drawn support, speak with a united voice. Yesterday’s joint statement from the first and deputy first ministers was a welcome first step.
it is important that all politicians, including those representing areas where protests have drawn support, speak with a united voice
Where governments can be effective is ensuring that police and the criminal justice system have the resources to quickly respond to troublemakers and remove them from the streets.
There is also a huge job to be done to compel social media companies to police their own users and clamp down on the kind of rampant misinformation witnessed in the wake of the Southport stabbings.
Malevolent forces at home and abroad are using the cloak of online anonymity to exploit such tragedies and poison our communities. It is the responsibility of all of us to ensure they do not succeed.
