There can only be enormous concern over the circumstances surrounding the arson attack on a hotel in the Co Donegal border town of Moville which was due to provide a new home for up to 100 asylum seekers.
Gardai are still investigating the full background to the weekend outbreak at the Caiseal Mara complex, which left a man in his 50s needing treatment in hospital, and there are growing suspicions that a racist motive was involved.
It is essential that the authorities consult widely with community representatives about the arrangements for the new arrivals, but, as we report today, many people in Moville are already determined to warmly welcome the refugees.
Anyone who instead attempts to destroy property, and send out a twisted message of hate, deserves to be brought before the courts without delay.
