13 October 2026

The SDLP Opposition today challenged the Executive over delays to promised racial equality legislation, following a record 2,367 race hate incidents and 1,507 crimes in Northern Ireland during 2025/26.

The party's Black History Month Opposition Day motion recognised the contribution of black communities and called for answers on the delayed legislation. Representatives from the North West Migrants Forum, All Nations Ministries and the African and Caribbean Support Organisation Northern Ireland (ACSONI) attended the debate.

Speaking after the debate, SDLP Opposition Spokesperson for the Executive Office Sinéad McLaughlin MLA said:

"More than 1,500 race hate crimes were recorded in Northern Ireland last year, the highest number on record. That is a damning reflection of the racism that continues to blight our society. At a time when the need for stronger protections could scarcely be clearer, the Executive has failed to deliver the racial equality legislation it promised. The First Minister and deputy First Minister must explain why.

"We have seen families intimidated out of their homes, people subjected to appalling racist abuse and communities left fearful about what might happen next. Many of those targeted have spent years building their lives here, working in our public services, running businesses and contributing to their local communities. They should be able to live without fear of being threatened or attacked because of the colour of their skin. The fact that so many cannot demands a much more serious response from those in government.

"Northern Ireland is already lagging well behind other jurisdictions when it comes to racial equality law. The Executive had an opportunity to begin addressing that in its 2025/26 legislative programme and failed to take it.

"As the Opposition, we intend to hold Ministers to account. We want to know what has happened to this legislation, what has prevented its introduction and when the First Minister and deputy First Minister intend to bring it before the Assembly. Those are questions that deserve clear answers."

SDLP Foyleside Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr said:

"I have spent years challenging racism and speaking up for people who have experienced it. I know the damage it does and the frustration felt by campaigners who have repeatedly called for change. With race hate incidents and crimes at record levels, there is real anger that progress on racial equality remains so slow. People who experience discrimination should not have to fight so hard to have their concerns taken seriously.

"Black History Month should be a time of pride for our communities, but it must also bring some honesty about the challenges we continue to face. I want every child growing up here to feel safe, valued and able to achieve their ambitions without being held back by prejudice. We have people across the North doing extraordinary work to challenge racism, often with very little support. They deserve to see that work backed up by real progress from those in power."