What’s the Point? Part II

The low-level sectarian intimidation that scars so much of Northern Ireland continues, as we can see in this story of a Protestant family being forced out of the county Antrim village of Rasharkin, which has seen numerous sectarian incidents over recent months. Similar stories can be told from many small towns and villages across the six counties, as Splintered Sunrise noted in this thoughtul piece. There is of course a point in the attacks on GAA clubs and orange halls, and in bricks, bottles, snooker and golf balls, fireworks etc hurled across the peaceline, or the painting of sectarian slogans on family homes. Marking territory, keeping sectarianism on the boil as a means of trying to encourage young people to join paramilitary organisations, faction fighting etc. Is enough being done to stop it though? Clearly not. It is essential not only that communities speak out and act against this type of behaviour, but that the police and courts treat it more seriously. These are not petty crimes; they are hate crimes, and should be treated as such. Minimum gaol terms in the years for sectarian crimes would be a good start. That way fewer people will feel they have to leave their homes, and people will take all expressions of sectarianism more seriously.