The East Antrim MLA said: “I am pleased to hear the Justice Minister, Minister Long, intends to introduce hate crime legislation during this Assembly mandate. Following the recent racially motivated riots we have witnessed in Northern Ireland, this legislation is more important than ever. 

“The statutory aggravation offence model for hate crime, which the Minister intends to bring forward in a forthcoming Sentencing Bill, will become the core method of prosecuting hate crimes in Northern Ireland. Additionally, the Minister has also emphasised the need for enhanced protection for victims of hate crimes, and intends to introduce specific support for victims and witnesses through a Victims Bill. 

“This proposed legislation by the Department of Justice is a welcome step towards tackling racism and prejudices within society, and ensuring the victims of these crimes receive adequate protection and support they deserve. There is no place in our society for such hatred and discrimination. Northern Ireland welcomes diversity and we must embrace and celebrate individuality.

“I look forward to supporting these proposals when introduced by the Minister. As she says in her statement released today, we know this legislation is not enough to end hate crimes. We need a cross-departmental approach to ending prejudices within our society, so we can avoid the recent scenes of violence witnessed across Northern Ireland.”