Northern Ireland

Syrian family intimidated out of north Belfast home

SDLP councillor Paul McCusker said he was "absolutely disgusted" that a Syrian family had been intimidated out of their home in north Belfast
SDLP councillor Paul McCusker said he was "absolutely disgusted" that a Syrian family had been intimidated out of their home in north Belfast SDLP councillor Paul McCusker said he was "absolutely disgusted" that a Syrian family had been intimidated out of their home in north Belfast

A Syrian family has been intimidated from their home in north Belfast.

SDLP councillor Paul McCusker said the family's home on the Crumlin Road had been visited on Monday by two men who told the householders, including a mother, father and two young children, that the property was "their home" and the occupants had 24 hours to leave.

Mr McCusker said it had been a "frightening experience" for the family who left the property the following day.

He said they had presented themselves to the Housing Executive and had been placed in temporary housing until a permanent home could be found for them.

Mr McCusker said he was "absolutely disgusted" by what had happened.

"People should be able to live in any community without any fear of violence or intimidation," he said.

"I have been working with police to ensure that this family are being cared for and their needs are being met."