Northern Ireland

Fears of further attacks forces Belfast Multi Cultural Association to leave premises

The Belfast Multi Cultural Association in south Belfast was targeted in arson attacks in January 2021 and April 2022.
The Belfast Multi Cultural Association in south Belfast was targeted in arson attacks in January 2021 and April 2022. The Belfast Multi Cultural Association in south Belfast was targeted in arson attacks in January 2021 and April 2022.

BELFAST Multi Cultural Association is selling its premises over fears members will be targeted in more racist attacks.

The building on Donegall Pass was targeted by arsonists in January 2021, and again after extensive repairs in April last year.

In a statement, the BMCA said it was with “deep sadness” they had announced the sale of the building.

“After the first arson attack we had great hopes that we could return to the building and further develop our plans for the centre,” the statement read.

Thanking the wider community for support and donations, members said they had been left devastated by the second attack after repairing the damage.

“Whilst the racist and Islamophobic attack was condemned by many, the result has left us speechless and we have made many attempts to engage in shared dialogue but we were met by a wall of silence. This has been deeply discouraging.”

The group said there had also been no progress with the police investigation, despite CCTV footage, the prominent location and high-profile nature of the attacks after previous threats of violence.

“Since, we have slowly accepted that we will never return to Donegall Pass. The members are far too anxious and scared of the reprisal and we can’t risk our lives over it. Therefore it is with heavy hearts that we have listed it for sale.”

BMCA has said they now hope to move to alternative premises to fulfil their plans for a community hub open to all.

Hoping to find “understanding neighbours,” they added: “We all need to be surrounded with people that genuinely care for the well-being of others. Only these type of people can create a community that is more than just a bunch of individuals next to each other.”

Alliance leader Naomi Long called the decision "heartbreaking news," adding: "I hope that, wherever you find your new home, they'll recognise and celebrate your contribution and value to the community. Sending you positivity and love."

Sinn Féin councillor John Gormley said: "I believe that the vast majority of our citizens want Belfast to be a diverse, multicultural and welcoming city. I wish to extend solidarity to BMCA and I hope you will soon find a new home to carry on your important work."

Patrick Corrigan from Amnesty International, who had helped coordinate fundraising efforts, said: "Solidarity, friends. Your presence will be a blessing wherever you build your new home."