SHORT STRAND UNDER CONTINUED ATTACK
Over the past couple of weeks the Short Strand has been subjected to sustained and premeditated attacks by unionist paramilitaries. This is the worst violence to hit the Short Strand since the prolonged sectarian siege of 2002.
Dozens of homes were damaged during these sustained attacks and families have been left traumatised with some young children not wanting to return to their homes. One particular family living on the front line of the attacks has several members who suffer from mental and physical illnesses – you can imagine how these people are struggling to cope. The PSNI have responded with their usual failed tactic of speeding through the area, playing cat and mouse with the local youth. It goes without saying that if the present situation continues someone will be seriously injured or killed.
Whilst the community welcomes the solidarity and support from other parts of Belfast, this unfortunately has led to some unwanted elements coming into our community to carry out actions which are not in the best interest of our residents. As has happened in the past local residents have set party politics aside to unite for the common good of all the people in the area.
In terms of addressing this situation community workers have been engaging with the relevant statutory bodies and politicians to bring this situation to an end. The blame for these latest attacks on our community lies with the UVF of East Belfast who are stoking up sectarian unrest to deflect attention away from their own criminal activities.
Over the next number of weeks we need to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with our neighbours. It is also vitally important at this dangerous time, and as attacks on our area continue on an almost nightly basis, that parents of young children ensure that the children are nowhere near the interface areas.
– éirígí South & East Belfast
