People can be “dragged into narratives” about migration if politicians ignore genuinely-held concerns, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has said.
The DUP MLA said that although people may have “genuine concerns” about public services and migration, they may not be accurate and should be responded to with “the factual context”.
Serious disorder and several race-related incidents broke out on the streets of Belfast on several occasions in early August after an anti-immigration protest.
The unrest and attacks on some businesses owned by people from minority ethnic backgrounds came at a time of tension in parts of the UK after misinformation on social media following the murder of three young children in Southport.
Politicians in Northern Ireland have pledged to stand up against racism and hate, and repeatedly emphasised the importance of diversity for the region, particularly in the health and care sector.
People talking part in a counter protest against the anti-immigration protest in Belfast city centre (Mark Marlow/PA)
Speaking on BBC’s Sunday Politics programme, Ms Little-Pengelly said it was important that politicians did not ignore people with genuinely-held concerns.
“The DUP are here to listen to people on the ground, we’re here to listen to people who have genuinely-held concerns,” she said.
“The worst thing that a government can do, the worst thing that a political party can do, no matter where they are, is ignore genuinely-held concerns.
“Because that’s exactly then how things end up spiralling because those people with genuinely-held concerns get dragged into narratives, being offered so-called solutions or reasons that are not true.
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“So, it’s important that political parties do get down on the ground and talk and listen to people. I will never apologise for that, we will always do that in the DUP.”
She added: “Importantly, people may have a genuinely-held concern that actually isn’t accurate and it’s important that public representatives can come down, listen to people, talk to them and outline the factual context as well.”
The comments echo remarks made by DUP leader Gavin Robinson during an address to the party’s conference in Belfast on Saturday.
In his leader’s address, Mr Robinson said that those who engage in violence “lose the right to raise concerns”, but added that “legitimate issues” on migration “need to be debated”.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson speaking during the party’s annual conference at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast (Brian Lawless/PA)
“I will raise those issues without fear or favour,” the MP for East Belfast said, “but what I won’t do is provide cover for base racism or violence.”
He continued: “As someone who supports and promotes our country, I am pleased that it is attractive and if someone wishes to come here lawfully and, in many cases, provide vital support to our public services, then not only should we welcome them, we should sign them up.
“No-one, least of all care workers, nurses or doctors who contribute to our society, should feel fear from those who believe in this country.
“The hallmark of the Union is its rich tapestry and its salvation will be found in its strength of diversity. Following a challenging summer, it’s our job to show leadership and get this right.”