Debate contribution: Racism, Sectarianism and Xenophobia

Debate contribution by Ms Michelle O'Neill on 22 June 2026.

MLA: Ms Michelle O'Neill
Party at the time: Sinn Féin
Date: 22 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Racism, Sectarianism and Xenophobia
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5638099

Text

We cannot say that enough. It is important that the wider community hears the message from elected representatives that we are against racism in all its forms and stand firmly against sectarianism and xenophobia. We tried to convey that message in the initial Executive statement on 10 June, when all Ministers acknowledged the events on the streets had caused significant harm to our communities, spread fear and put innocent lives at risk. The unequivocal collective condemnation was really important. You are right: words are so important at such times and can easily be used to whip up fear, division and tension. In recent weeks, we have seen how quickly the inflammatory language used online can circulate and be picked up by people to inflame already difficult and tense situations. As political leaders, Members of the House have a duty to be mindful of all our public statements and the words we use, particularly in the online space.

157 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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