A WOMEN'S CENTRE in a loyalist area of south Belfast has been subjected to persistent attacks following a visit there by the President, Mrs Robinson.
There have been seven attacks on Windsor Women's Centre in the Village area, including three arson attacks, during the past two months. Personal threats have been made against staff and the repair bill for damage to the premises is put at £65,000.
About 20 protesters picketed the building when the President visited it in September. They shouted "Go home, you Fenian bastard" and other abuse. The following day, the centre was extensively damaged in an arson attack.
flammable liquid was poured through the roof and set alight. Damage was estimated at more than £20,000 in that attack. In later attacks, double glazed windows were broken.
"Threats have been made against staff at the centre. A total of 32 people are employed there, 29 of whom are local. A spokeswoman refused to comment on the threats.
A protest which was to be held yesterday to highlight the intimidation was cancelled.
The centre had planned to hold a "public show of commitment" involving members of women's groups from across Belfast, voluntary organisations and trade unions. But the event was called off following a meeting between women's centre representatives and an organisation known as the Village Concerned Residents. This group was established by people who opposed the President's visit.
The Village Concerned Residents group was planning to hold a counter demonstration if the women's protest went ahead and the centre is believed to have cancelled its rally to prevent the situation getting even more out of hand.
Groups of loyalists are reported to have been loitering outside the building in recent weeks. The women's centre has decided to mount only local protests, involving residents of the Village.
Ms Julita Clancy, from the Meath Peace Group, who has visited the centre, condemned the attacks. "Women from the South and from England who have been in the centre have ,been very impressed by the dedication of the staff and the beauty of the premises.
"There is a lovely little garden and a large play area for children. It's a showpiece centre with an impressive range of courses for women. I am saddened that this place is being attacked", she said.