'Two traditions' model outdated: Young Alliance

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 8th Aug 2005

Young Alliance Chairman Ian Parsley has said that yesterday's appalling attack on a Polish family in Kilrea, Co Londonderry shows that the 'two traditions' social model in Northern Ireland is outdated.

The North Down Councillor stated: "This disgusting attack on an innocent family illustrates yet again the alarming extent to which xenophobia and racism has developed in some communities across Northern Ireland. It is outrageous that people coming to this country to contribute to the economy and improve their own lives should live in fear of being attacked solely because of their origins.

"There is a growing and vibrant Polish community in Northern Ireland which is a welcome example of how far we have come in the last ten years. We must not allow that progress to be set back by people carrying appallingly backward notions of a Northern Ireland belonging to any single group.

"This attack shows that any attempt at developing equality, human rights or anti-hate legislation on the 'two traditions' model is bound to failure. Like most regions in Europe, Northern Ireland is now a diverse society with many minority communities, all of which have the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else. Legislation must reflect the reality of a multi-tradition society."

ENDS