Political leaders in the North have called for an end to recent violence.
The Stormont Assembly has been taking place this morning for statements in support of the rule of law.
Solidarity to the @translink drivers. They should be able to go to work and provide a public service free from fear and intimidation. The attack last night was reckless and dangerous and needs to be called out for exactly that. pic.twitter.com/tIk3m21YEO
— Paul Maskey (@PaulMaskeyMP) April 8, 2021
Leaders Hit Out At "Destruction And Despair"
Last night's violence in West Belfast was the latest in a string of disturbing scenes in the last 8 days.
A bus was set alight with petrol bombs and a journalist was attacked.
First Minister Arlene Foster says everyone should know that when politics fail, this happens.
"Those who fill the vacuum offer destruction and despair."
While the Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill hit out at 'criminal networks' which were encouraging children to carry out these acts:
"These people are no role models for our youth."
Adding to that she called them "outdate, antiquated, they're caught in a time warp."
In a mostly civilised debate, there was one point where things got tense between some members of the DUP and Sinn Fein.
That required an intervention from the Assembly speaker Alex Maskey.
"There's an awful lot of people out there watching and listening to what's going on here."
"They want to see leadership."
I am deeply concerned by the scenes of violence in Northern Ireland, especially attacks on PSNI who are protecting the public and businesses, attacks on a bus driver and the assault of a journalist. The way to resolve differences is through dialogue, not violence or criminality.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 7, 2021
Widespread Condemnation From Outside Of NI
There has been widespread condemnation of the events from the Northern Ireland leaders.
As well as the Taoiseach, the British Prime Minister and the European Commission.
