Anti-Immigration Posters Removed by Police in Rathcoole

In a notable action, police have taken down anti-immigration posters in the Rathcoole estate of Newtownabbey due to rising community concerns about intimidation. These posters contained threatening messages aimed at individuals “facilitating the settlement of Muslims or illegals,” and featured ominous imagery with the warning, “We are watching.”

While some of these posters have been removed, others still remain, urging residents to “Stop the illegal immigrants” and cautioning to “protect our children.” However, local sources indicate that this campaign stems from a small group lacking broader community support.

DUP MLA Philip Brett confirmed the police’s involvement in removing the posters, reinforcing that the majority of the Rathcoole community does not share these sentiments. He highlighted the positive contributions of the Muslim community to Northern Ireland, stating they are indeed welcome in the area.

Residents have expressed reluctance to speak out due to fears of retaliation, but many assert that such views do not represent the community’s values. This situation underscores the ongoing efforts in Northern Ireland to promote inclusivity and combat intolerance, as leaders strive to maintain a welcoming environment for everyone.