Foyle MP condemns 'sectarian' attack on homes

An attack on homes in Londonderry by a group of young people, which police are treating as "sectarian-motivated," has been condemned by Foyle MP Colum Eastwood.

Police said a large group gathered in the Bishop Street area, opposite Nailors Row, and threw stones and bottles at several houses in the predominantly loyalist Fountain estate on Thursday evening.

Eastwood described the incident as "totally unacceptable," saying "sectarian, anti-social behaviour has no place in the city".

One man was also arrested on suspicion of public order offences during the incident and later released on bail pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).

Police said they attended the scene of the disturbances and spoke with those present in an effort to calm tensions.

They have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Eastwood described the incident as "totally unacceptable".

"People in Derry want to live in peace with their neighbours," he added.

"No one should feel under attack or intimidated in their own homes and they shouldn't be made to feel unwelcome in Derry.

"I would encourage parents to have a word with their kids, explain to them how this kind of attack would make their family feel and show them why we all have a role to play in making this a community that is open and inclusive for everyone.

Sinn Féin councillor Patricia Logue also condemned the incident and appealed for anyone with information to give it to the police.

"I condemn this blatantly sectarian attack, which saw stone-throwers target homes in the Fountain estate," she said.

"There can be no place for sectarianism in our society.

"The people of this city want and are entitled to an inclusive, better future for themselves and their children, and reject this sectarian and anti-community behaviour outright."