Personal and home security measures are to be provided to victims of hate crime in Northern Ireland, it was announced today.
Under a new pilot scheme launched by the British government personal alarms, smoke alarms, door chains and peepholes will be made available.
Set to run until the end of the year, it will also provide 24 hours a day support and reassurance to victims and help with repairing broken windows and getting rid of graffiti painted on homes.
Criminal Justice Minister David Hanson said: "Hate in all its forms is wrong. Attacking or verbally abusing someone because of their sexuality, race, political opinion, religion or disability is not acceptable."
Launching Project HIPA (Hate Incidents Practical Actions) he said British government was fully committed to addressing the problem and was working in partnership with a range of organisations to combat hate crime in all its manifestations.
The PSNI said it fully supported the scheme and was committed to tackling all forms of hate crime in society.
Assistant Chief Constable Drew Harris said each of the 29 police districts had dedicated Hate Incident & Minority Liaison Officers who would work with the Housing Executive and Community Safety Partnerships in delivering the scheme.
He added: "I urge anyone who is a victim or witnesses any hate crime incidents to report it to police."
PA