Fianna Fáil has expressed concerns of a worrying lack of leadership from Northern Ireland’s First Minister Peter Robinson & Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness in tackling a recent spike in violence across the border.
It follows a second night of violent disturbances in north Belfast, which left 15 police officers injured.
Fianna Fail’s Border Region Development Brendan Smith has said real political leadership is needed to address this escalating crisis.
“This has the potential to break up communities across Northern Ireland,” said Deputy Smith. “But despite the gravity of the situation, there has been a worrying lack of leadership from both Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness.
“Northern Ireland needs a First Minister and Deputy First Minister who are there on the tough days attacking the controversial issues in their communities, as well as turning up to photocalls. Ongoing inaction from political leaders will allow the rot to set and these violent attacks will escalate.
“We need to see real political leadership to nip this in the bud. I am calling on Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness to take control of the situation urgently and show these cowardly criminals that the people of Northern Ireland won’t stand for their behaviour.”