Taoiseach Simon Harris has expressed his disgust at “those flying the Irish Tricolour whilst attacking police and spouting racism” during an anti-immigration rally in Belfast on Saturday that descended into violence.
Protesters waving both the Union flag and the Irish Tricolour took part in the protest, which began at the front of Belfast City Hall.
Among those who joined the rally was a group from Coolock in north Dublin, which has been the scene of recent anti-immigration protests in the Republic.
A cafe and a supermarket in south Belfast were badly damaged by fire during violent disorder which followed the protests. A number of cars were also burnt out as police attempted to deal with unrest in the Donegall Road area which lasted several hours on Saturday night and into Sunday morning.
MG’s impressive small hybrid undercuts Toyota and Renault on price
Buying a home on your own: Here is how to navigate the perils and pitfalls
‘Our daughter blames us for not realising years ago that she was autistic’
Kamala Harris’s storming opening salvo has left Donald Trump scrambling to regain his early momentum
Mr Harris said he spoke with Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill on Sunday.
In a statement, Mr Harris’s office said he had agreed to stay in contact with Ms O’Neill.
“They discussed the violent scenes in Belfast last night and acknowledged the importance of the work between the gardaí and PSNI to counter those who are trying to sow hate, racism and division in both jurisdictions on the island.
“The Taoiseach spoke of Belfast as a city and society that has spent decades working to reject hate, embrace peace, and build respect and inclusivity.
“The Taoiseach also expressed disgust at those flying the Irish Tricolour whilst attacking police and spouting racism.
“This is repugnant to everything the Irish flag represents.”
Police mounted a significant security operation during a lengthy confrontation between protesters and those taking part in an anti-racist rally at Belfast City Hall during which fireworks and other missiles were thrown.
A number of people then travelled towards the university area of the city where anti-immigration groups were involved in clashes with police in the Lower Ormeau area.
A business was attacked in the Botanic area of the city and windows were smashed at a hotel.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it is treating reports of criminal damage as hate crimes and had made four arrests.
Supermarket manager Bashir, who declined to give his surname out of concerns for his safety, said his store was extensively damaged by fire. He and his staff were removing remaining stock from his grocery store, which was set alight on Saturday night. The front and inside of the business were extensively damaged.
He said that the Islamic community was being targeted.
“People attacked this place, racism against Islam and Muslims, especially the Muslim community,” Mr Bashir said. “All of that happened and the police did nothing, I am telling you the truth. What kind of police are letting the people burn everything down?”
A number of social messages during the week had been shared asking for people to gather and block roads in the greater Belfast area and elsewhere in the wake of the murders of three young children in Southport.
In a statement on Sunday, PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck said: “So far we have made four arrests for a number of offences including disorderly behaviour, assault on police, taking part in an un-notified procession, riotous behaviour and possession of fireworks without a licence.
“There were four reports of assault made to police involving members of the public. Serious injuries, thankfully, were not reported.
“Three police officers also sustained injuries as a consequence of this disorder, two officers remained on duty and one officer was relieved from duty after suffering concussion.
“Such attacks on officers are totally unacceptable and I would place on record my gratitude for the professional actions of officers as they dealt with yesterday’s events.
“To date we have received 13 reports of criminal damage but we expect to receive more as the days progress.”
He added the PSNI was in the process of gathering evidence including CCTV to bring those responsible to justice.
[ Dozens arrested after disorder in England and Northern IrelandOpens in new window ]
Stormont leaders including Ms O’Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Minister for Justice Naomi Long condemned the violence in Belfast.
In a joint statement, Ms O’Neill and Ms Little-Pengelly today said: “Whilst people are entitled to peaceful protest, there is no justification for racism or the violence and intimidation that occurred on Saturday...
“We reiterate our joint commitment to a shared, peaceful and inclusive society.”
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn praised the police for their response to the unrest.
In a social media post, DUP leader Gavin Robinson said scenes of scenes of “violence, thuggery, and destruction” are totally unacceptable.
SDLP MLA Matthew O’Toole, who addressed an antiracism rally in Belfast city centre on Saturday, said there needed to be a “robust” policing response. – PA