The Lagan Valley MLA said: “I am deeply concerned for the children directly and indirectly impacted by the racist violence we have witnessed over the last week.

“Yesterday, the Education Minister confirmed that many newcomer children have been absent from school following the racist violence and the fear of being targeted. Every child has a right to an education, and have the right to live without fear, discrimination or violence.

“These children and their families have been traumatised, and we need to better understand the full impact of this racism on children who are simply trying to go to school, so we can do all we can to support them.

“Other children from a minority background, who may not have been directly impacted by this most recent racist violence, will be terrified that they could face abuse or be attacked.

“I have asked the Education Minister if additional resources will be given to the EA and schools through relevant teams like the Intercultural Team and the Addressing Bullying in Schools team.

“We urgently need to reassess what more can be done both in and outside of schools, to ensure children understand and appreciate difference and diversity, and they reject racism and violence.”