Northern Ireland has witnessed a disturbing surge in anti-immigration sentiments, manifesting in offensive posters strategically placed in various neighborhoods. A suspected coordinated campaign by the Ulster Defence Association (UDA) has targeted Belfast and now Newtownards, leaving communities outraged and prompting investigations by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), as reported by The Belfast Telegraph.
The Glen Estate in Newtownards became the latest site of this troubling display, with lampposts adorned with posters warning the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and private landlords to “take note.” The divisive messages explicitly state that the area “will no longer accept the rehousing of illegal immigrants or the excrement of other communities.” Such inflammatory language has been widely condemned, with accusations of racism and threats of violence.
Kellie Armstrong, Strangford MLA and Alliance representative, expressed her disgust at the situation, denouncing the posters as a deliberate attempt to instill fear and tension within the local community. Armstrong emphasized the need for unity, stating that the majority of residents share her repulsion towards such divisive tactics. Swift action was taken as Alliance contacted the local PSNI team, resulting in the removal of the offensive posters.
This incident is not isolated, as similar signs have been reported in other parts of Belfast, including the Belvoir area and Tildarg Avenue in the west of the city. The PSNI has confirmed its commitment to treating these occurrences as hate incidents, collaborating with community representatives to address the issue. Concerned citizens are urged to assist the police by providing information through the non-emergency number 101.
Despite the removal of the posters, tensions persist. Armstrong highlighted the distress among local residents, emphasizing the influence of external forces attempting to control communities. She denounced the attempt to stoke fear and division, asserting that Newtownards is an open and welcoming community that rejects racism and xenophobia.
The Alliance representative also addressed concerns about the safety of housing immigrants in areas where such signs have appeared. Armstrong cautioned against allocating housing based on factors such as skin color or religion, asserting that Northern Ireland has moved beyond such discriminatory practices. She emphasized the importance of upholding legislation and the Good Friday Agreement, advocating for a fair points system based on need.
Meanwhile, Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey condemned similar signs in west Belfast as “disgraceful.” Graffiti reading “Irish lives matter” further fueled tensions, prompting strong condemnation from People Before Profit. The Housing Executive, a key player in the allocation of housing, is yet to respond to the unfolding situation.
As Northern Ireland grapples with this unsettling wave of anti-immigrant sentiment, community leaders, representatives, and law enforcement agencies are working together to address the root causes and promote inclusivity. The broader challenge lies in fostering a society that values diversity and rejects the divisive tactics employed by those seeking to sow discord.
