Diocese of Down & Dromore

The Bishop of Down & Dromore, the Rt Rev Harold Miller, today made the following statement in the wake of the rasists attacks which took place in Northern Ireland over the past few days. Bishop Miller said: 'I heard with horror this morning about six suspected racist attacks in the Province over the weekend.  ‘Racism’ was a key theme in my address to the Diocesan Synod last Thursday, when I said:  ‘The myth of our so called Ulster hospitality and warmth has been blown open for all to see with racial attacks on visiting under 19’s Indian cricket teams.   It was such a joy to welcome people from a whole range of nationalities to Down Cathedral on St Patrick’s Day this year – and to see how much those who came valued the invitation.  We said to them  - “If you are not Irish come into the parlour”.

I utterly condemn all such attacks, and ask all of us to learn from thirty years of ‘troubles’.  People must stop speaking negatively of others because of racial difference.  This must happen at grass roots level and behind closed doors where many of our conversations take place. I also ask all those who name the name of Christ to find practical and intentional ways of welcoming and supporting people from other cultures that live here in Ulster.  We have much to gain from their experience, perspectives and gifts.'