Violent riots in Belfast continue on second day

2011-06-22 23:32:35 GMT+7 (ICT)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND (BNO NEWS) -- Hundreds of separatist rioters gathered in Belfast, North Ireland for the second consecutive night on Tuesday as violent clashes broke out between loyalists, republicans, and security forces, officials said on Wednesday.

According to reports, between 400 and 700 protesters gathered in the streets of east Belfast's lower Newtownards, hurling petrol bombs, paint bombs, bricks, and bottles against the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Assistant Chief Constable Alistair Finlay told Ireland's UTV that at least three shots were fired in the area as "an act with murderous intent," adding that the loyalist paramilitary group Ulster Volunteer Force had been behind the violent riots.

An unnamed Press Association (PA) photographer was shot in the leg during the latest riots, but he was reported to be in a stable condition at the Royal Victoria Hospital. He is recovering from his injuries.

Sectarian clashes between loyalists and republicans began on Monday night during which at least 11 shots were fired between both groups, injuring at least two people. The PSNI have deployed helicopters and water cannons to disperse the crowds and control the area, confirming that 66 baton rounds were also discharged.

Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness condemned the violent riots, stressing that they are "entirely unacceptable."

"At this time when many are working hard to build a better and brighter future for all in Northern Ireland it is disappointing and deeply concerning to see this level of violence return to our streets," Robinson stated, calling on all those involved in the violence "to desist immediately."

"We have given clear commitments to continue to deliver progress for all within the community including in those areas most at need. This type of behavior damages the local economy and unfairly mars the reputation of the community," Robinson added.

Meanwhile, McGuinness said the country has made tremendous progress in dealing with interface violence in recent times, emphasizing that the progress "will not be undone by these acts of violence and recent rioting in East Belfast."

"A small minority of individuals are clearly determined to destabilize our communities. They will not be allowed to drag us back to the past," McGuinness continued, urging calm and supporting community leaders trying to restore stability in the city.

"We need to ensure that tensions are not raised over the coming weeks, and I will do everything I can to assist community leaders in their efforts to bring calm to the streets."

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2011-06-22

Just over the horizon for Ireland: big riots a la Greece, when the Irish realize they have to tighten their belts and quit spending more than they make.

Too many people on that island. Hand out free condoms everywhere. Anyone who wants their tubes tied - gets it done for free. Give the natural environment a break. Bring back the snakes. While you're at it, drop that silly religious stuff, with Catholicism, Saint Patty, and all that hocus pocus.

Just over the horizon for Ireland: big riots a la Greece, when the Irish realize they have to tighten their belts and quit spending more than they make.

Too many people on that island. Hand out free condoms everywhere. Anyone who wants their tubes tied - gets it done for free. Give the natural environment a break. Bring back the snakes. While you're at it, drop that silly religious stuff, with Catholicism, Saint Patty, and all that hocus pocus.

Unlike the Islamic problem I believe the Protestant v Catholic divide is merely an excuse to vent frustration over, with the true underlying cause being economic problems. The IRA signed a peace treaty years ago during an economic boom with Ireland being one of the main beneficiaries of european development grants.