Alliance MP Mrs Long was speaking after Michael Abiona’s new home in Glenluce Drive, Knocknagoney, was draped in banners reading ‘Local Houses 4 Local People’ and ‘We Need Homes 2’ (sic). Mr Abiona has now said he will not move into the property due to the intimidation.
Mrs Long said those behind the posters did not represent East Belfast.
“This sort of behaviour has no place in our community and does nothing but send out the message that East Belfast is unwelcoming, when we know the opposite is true. I hope the experience has not traumatised this poor family, who should be free to live where they wish without intimidation.
“Any right-thinking person will condemn this blatantly racist behaviour and I have no doubt the vast majority of residents in the area will be sickened by it. Rather than Mr Abiona and his family, it is this kind of vile behaviour that should be unwelcome in our society.”