Threats described as "sectarian intimidation" against a Housing Executive contractor in Belfast have been condemned.

Construction workers were forced to leave the site in Rathcoole yesterday, 24 November, over sectarian threats.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said: "I whole heartedly condemn this sectarian intimidation. The contractor was not only carrying out work on a tower block due for demolition but were also carrying out both health and safety and response maintenance work for Housing Executive tenants in the Rathcoole area. 

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"The withdrawal of the contractor from this area means that these tenants have to wait for the work required on their properties, some of which could be urgent work. 

"I would like to express my concern for the Housing Executive employees and contractors in this area who are day and daily looking after the wellbeing of potentially the most vulnerable tenants in the area. 

"I want the workers to be able to resume work free from this intimidation as soon as possible. This sectarian intimidation needs to stop now."