Queen’s University chief urges young people against violence as campus to close

Vice Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, Sir Ian Greer (Liam McBurney/PA)

The head of Queen’s University Belfast has urged young people not to risk jeopardising their future by taking part in violence.

The university has announced its campus will be closed on Friday, with an anti-immigration protest and a counter-protest expected in the Northern Ireland capital.

In a statement, the university said its public facilities will also close as a precautionary measure to ensure staff and students travelling to and from campus are not put at any risk.

Vice Chancellor Professor Ian Greer made a direct appeal to young people not to risk jeopardising their future and the future of the city through misguided actions.

“At Queen’s, we abhor violence and condemn without reservation Islamophobia, racism and xenophobia in all forms,” he said.

“As a university community, we are committed to diversity, equality, inclusion and belonging, and to our campus being a safe, secure environment for all staff and students.

“I urge young people who might become involved in violence to understand that the biggest threat to your future prospects does not come from people fleeing persecution in other parts of the world, or from committed international staff who underpin the Health Service, or from families, like yours, who wish to live in peace and contribute to society here.”

Mr Greer emphasised in his message to young people that progress comes through cooperation and dialogue.

“The biggest threat to your future prospects, and the greatest threat to your safety, comes from those who believe that violence is the answer, and that damage and destruction brings progress,” he said.

Please do not jeopardise your future and the future of your city through misguided actions, which will damage your chances in life and damage this great city

“None of this is true. We all want to see Belfast as a place that offers opportunities for you and your future. Violence will not achieve this. Progress comes through cooperation and dialogue.

“Queen’s is a committed partner for all of the people of Belfast. We work closely with communities to identify and address the challenges exacerbated by social inequalities. We are your university. We hold opportunities for you, as much as anyone else.

“Let’s work together positively to change people’s lives. Let’s harness our energies for the wider good, including your own.

“Please do not jeopardise your future and the future of your city through misguided actions, which will damage your chances in life and damage this great city.”