Significant concern about women's safety after double attack

1.55.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 1st Oct 2006

Alliance Deputy Leader, Naomi Long

Alliance Party representatives in East Belfast have stated their concern for women's safety in the area, after a double sexual assault over the weekend.

Belfast City Councillor Maíre Hendron stated: "The fact that two, apparently completely separate, sexual assaults happened within five hours and a few miles of each other will cause extreme concern among women in the area. The sense that there is danger after dark brings with it a severe restriction of free movement around our city for people just looking to enjoy an evening out. That is not something we should be prepared to

tolerate.

Local MLA and Party Deputy Leader Naomi Long added: "These were two horrible ordeals for the victims concerned. I would urge anyone who saw or heard anything at all, no matter how insignificant it appears, to contact the police and do all we can to ensure those who are intent on causing fear face the full weight of the law."

ENDS