The Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ) has warned that racist intimidation in Northern Ireland has been made especially dangerous by the involvement of loyalist paramilitary elements. Director Daniel Holder said far-right, anti-migrant rhetoric and networks are being amplified online, and recent weeks had seen an uptick in activity, including murals designed to stir fear.

The Northern Ireland Executive issued a collective statement firmly condemning the violence and disorder that took place across communities on a recent night. Ministers described an incident in north Belfast on Monday as deeply shocking and noted the matter is now before the courts.

The Executive insisted the justice system must be allowed to proceed, and drew a distinction between peaceful protest and the destructive behaviour witnessed. They said some individuals are exploiting genuine public hurt and anger for their own purposes, causing damage within areas they claim to defend.

The statement rejected all forms of prejudice, adding there is no justification for attacking homes, setting fire to vehicles, targeting businesses, or damaging public infrastructure. With international attention on Northern Ireland, the Executive stressed that people's actions would shape how the region is perceived.

The Executive praised the police and emergency services for their bravery and professionalism, expressed solidarity with those affected, and highlighted the valuable contributions of minority ethnic communities to the economy, health sector, and public services.

The Patient and Client Council said the violence was having a major negative impact on health and social care staff and services. It said the public's ability to safely access services in some areas, including older and vulnerable people, was being seriously hindered. The council called for an immediate end to the violence to ensure the safety of staff and service delivery.

The CAJ and the International Federation for Human Rights urged authorities in the UK and Northern Ireland to implement outstanding UN treaty body recommendations to combat racism and far-right activity.