Bradshaw reiterates call for students to stay away from Holyland on St Patrick’s Day

Ms Bradshaw’s call followed several off-licences in the area saying they would close voluntarily for a number of hours on the day, with both Queen’s University and Ulster University telling their students to not travel to the Holyland. Classes will also be cancelled today, tomorrow and Friday.

“I back the universities in their request for students to stay away from the Holyland this Friday,” she said.

“I am pleased the universities and off-licences have taken a proactive approach to help prevent trouble, which also adds to the good work from other quarters. Students and others need to be aware of the serious consequences of their behaviour if they engage in any antisocial activities.

“We do not want to stop people having any fun on St Patrick’s Day. But for the long-term residents of the Holyland, it has become an annual day of dread. There are plenty of other organised activities, I would encourage people to engage with them instead.”