• 22 June 2011

Statement from Bishop Harold concerning the sectarian violence in East Belfast

I am deeply troubled by a second night of sectarian violence in the lower Newtownards Road-Short Strand area. Such behaviour is not only reprehensible but inflicts serious damage on a community that has many other difficulties to overcome.

There is a better future to be enjoyed by every section of Northern Ireland society and we must determine not to be dragged back to the past by those with other, destructive agendas.

I call on those involved to step away from this violent path and appeal for reason and calm.

Please join me in praying for the peace of God to prevail.

ENDS