Police ‘Listen To Our Diverse Communities’ Following EU Vote

Senior officers from North Wales Police have met representatives from the region’s Polish and Portuguese communities to listen to their concerns and to offer reassurance in the wake of the vote to leave the European Union.

Following the EU Referendum some parts of the United Kingdom have reported a rise in community tensions and reports of hate crime.

North Wales Police say, “The Force feels it important to reassure all of the communities across North Wales that any racial abuse and hate crime of any kind will not be tolerated.”

Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard and Assistant Chief Constable Richard Debicki met Iolnanda Viegas, a representative of the Portuguese Council of Great Britain and Ireland and Jolanta Atkinson, chair of the Anglo Polish Society of Chester and North Wales.

The meeting centred on concerns felt among some Polish and Portuguese residents in recent days, especially reports of racist and abusive comments made by a small number of individuals to members of their communities.

The meeting also looked at ways in which the police can work in partnership to tackle the issue and to encourage victims to come forward.

Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard said; “North Wales Police appreciates that there has been an increase in tension and it is important that we have early and regular discussions with representatives to provide reassurance and to let people know that we are here to protect all our communities.

“Whatever people’s views on the referendum, we will not allow it to be used as an excuse for hate crime.

Assistant Chief Constable Richard Debicki said; “It has been extremely useful to meet Iolanda and Jolanta to listen to what communities have been saying to them.

“Hate crime is hurtful and shameful and will not be tolerated by North Wales Police.

“I would encourage anyone who has been victim of any sort of abuse or harm motivated by hatred to contact us. People need to know that the full weight of the law will be brought against any offenders.”

Jolanta Atkinson said; “I feel reassured by this meeting. I want people to feel safe and to know that the police are listening and are here to help. The matter is not being brushed under the carpet.”

Iolanda Viegas added; “This has been an opportunity for us to work closer together. The Portuguese community should know that they are not alone and that there is no need to worry about going out.

“Anyone in the Portuguese community in North Wales who has been the victim of hate crime should contact the police. If they have concerns please contact me too.”

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, Arfon Jones said earlier in the week, “There has not been an increase in hate related incidents in our area and it is important that we do all that we can to prevent any such incidents and protect people from this type of crime.”

North Wales Police can be contacted on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

The hate crime self-reporting form is available on the North Wales Police website here.