Western trust Condemns Racial Abuse Targeting Healthcare Staff Following Arson Attacks
Ballymena, Northern Ireland – Teh Western Health and Social Care Trust has strongly condemned recent racist abuse and arson attacks directed at healthcare staff in Ballymena, following the destruction of six vehicles belonging to Filipino workers.The attacks have prompted widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the safety and wellbeing of international staff vital to Northern Ireland’s healthcare system.The incidents, occurring last Sunday night outside rented accommodation on Lisnevenagh Road, targeted employees of Wrightbus, a major local employer. This follows a separate condemnation from Wrightbus itself regarding the attacks. The Western Trust’s statement underscores the critical role international healthcare professionals play in delivering essential services and affirms its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment.
According to James Hamill, HR director at Wrightbus, the company “strongly condemned violence of any kind” and confirmed the affected staff felt “safe enough” to return to work this week. He emphasized the company’s pride in its “highly skilled, talented and diverse workforce,” stating each employee has contributed to Wrightbus becoming “a true industry leader.”
Sinn Féin MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, Pat Cullen, a former chief executive of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), described the attacks as “shocking and totally unacceptable.” Cullen highlighted the fundamental right of all workers to feel safe and acknowledged the indispensable contribution of international health staff, warning that the healthcare system relies heavily on their expertise. she called for prosecution of those responsible through the courts.
The Western trust has stated it is working closely with local authorities and community organizations to provide support to the affected staff and to reinforce its zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination. The incidents are under inquiry by police.
