Danske Bank in Belfast city centre
A Belfast city centre business has announced it has closed its doors early amid concerns for the welfare of its employees ahead of planned anti-immigration protests.
In a statement, Danske Bank announced its Donegall Square West closed earlier than normal today and has also advised employees in their head office branch to work from home.
A spokesperson for the company said: “In light of information about potential protests in and around the city centre this evening, we made the decision to close our Donegall Square West branch early and to allow colleagues in head office to work from home this afternoon if they wished to. This was a precautionary measure in the event of potential travel disruption, as the welfare of our colleagues is our highest priority.”
Further anti-immigration and counter protests are planned throughout in the city, joining hundreds across the UK, which claim to be in response to the stabbing of three children in Southport, England.
On Saturday, following an anti-immigration protest, there was a rampage through the streets, with businesses attacked, cars and bins burnt. Three police officers were injured and to date, five people have been arrested, the youngest being just 15.
Further disorder took place on Tuesday evening in south Belfast, where several homes were damaged and a Syrian-run supermarket was attacked twice.
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The disorder has been widely condemned with both the First and deputy First Minister slamming the violence.
“Whilst people are entitled to peaceful protest, there is no justification for racism or the violence and intimidation that occurred on Saturday,” they said in a joint statement.
“Those involved should be quickly brought before the courts and we appeal to anyone with information to provide that information to the PSNI.
“We reiterate our joint commitment to a shared, peaceful and inclusive society.”
Deputy First Minister appeals for calm after a third night of disorder in Belfast