This week's racist incidents in South Belfast - in which up to 20 people smashed windows and terrorised pregnant women and children in attacks on several houses - were disgusting.

Just a couple of years ago a couple of Eastern European men were stabbed to death in Dublin after getting involved in an argument with a gang of youths outside a chip shop.

Research has shown that many incidents of harassment are perpetrated by boys and young men. Harassment is, therefore, often a central part of male subculture.

Alongside education programmes we, therefore, need to do specific work with boys and young men to try to address this violent and negative behaviour.

Racism is, however, more than just colour prejudice. The experience of many people in these islands shows that racial prejudice can work against others simply because they come from another island, or from another part of the same island.

Racism should also be seen as being of a kind with other deep-rooted prejudices such as those relating to religion and gender, and that while each needs attention none can be viewed in isolation.
Everyone has a role to play in creating an Ireland in which racial diversity is valued and respected and where racism is not tolerated.
Things getting better

FOR many years local councillors in the North of Ireland have complained bitterly that they have been left powerless. It has been known as the 'democratic deficit'.

Little wonder then that councillors in Derry applauded this week when Chief Executive Valerie Watts told them that she wanted to make her officials more accountable to them and to the people of Derry.

The great majority of people in this city will be 100% behind Ms Watts in her determination to drag Derry City Council into the 21st century. You can read more of the plans that councillors have for our city in Ms Watts' exclusive 'Journal' interview today.

And one thing is clear for all ratepayers – things can only get better.