Northern Ireland

Racist graffiti in east Belfast, warning landlords to rent houses to `locals 1st'

&nbsp;<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; ">Alliance councillor David Armitage said he has asked Belfast City Council to have it removed as a matter of urgency. Picture by Alliance Party</span>
 Alliance councillor David Armitage said he has asked Belfast City Council to have it removed as a matter of urgency. Picture by Alliance Party  Alliance councillor David Armitage said he has asked Belfast City Council to have it removed as a matter of urgency. Picture by Alliance Party

RACIST graffiti in east Belfast, warning landlords to rent houses to `locals 1st', has been condemned as "appalling".

The slogans, daubed in black on white walls, has appeared in Dunraven Avenue and Glenbrook Avenue.

Alliance councillor David Armitage said he has asked Belfast City Council to have it removed as a matter of urgency.

"East Belfast is becoming more diverse and multicultural, which is welcome. What is not welcome is this graffiti. It is appalling some people would still have such attitudes in the 21st Century," he said.

"This summer has seen the best of Belfast showcased to a global audience through a number of major events. Graffiti like this and the thugs behind it have no place in our society - migrants are a valued part of our community, and should be respected and made to feel welcome.

"I know the vast majority of people who live in this area and further afield will be disgusted by this sickening graffiti. I hope we do not see any more and I would urge anyone with information on those who put it there to give it to police immediately."