Simon Coveney removed from Belfast peace event after security alert

Mr Coveney was due to give a key address at the Houben Centre on the Crumlin Road at 10am, followed by a panel discussion with community leaders, at the event organised by the John and Pat Hume Foundation.

Reports suggest that a hijacked van containing a suspect device has been left in the car park.

Mr Coveney had been speaking about the importance of reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

He had told the event: “The patient work of reconciliation and deepening of relationships does need to continue on our own island.”

In a message posted on Twitter around 12.30pm, Mr Coveney said: “In Belfast with @Humefoundation to honour John & Pat’s legacy of peace for all communities.

“Saddened & frustrated that someone has been attacked & victimised in this way and my thoughts are with him & his family. My thanks to @PoliceServiceNI”

A spokesperson for Mr Coveney said: “The minister and team are safe, have been taken to a secure location and the PSNI are doing their work.”

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police are currently in attendance of a security alert at the Crumlin Road area of North Belfast this morning (Friday 25th March).

“Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative main routes for their journey.

“There are no further details at this stage.”

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Brandon Lewis has sent “solidarity” to Mr Coveney.

“I am aware of reports of an ongoing security alert in Belfast. I am being kept up to date and I am in regular contact with the PSNI.

“Solidarity with Simon Coveney and all those impacted,” Mr Lewis tweeted.

Sinn Féin’s John Finucane has condemned those responsible for what is reported to be a hijacking incident.

The North Belfast MP said: “Reports of a van with a device being hijacked and parked outside a church and a well-used community facility are concerning and disgraceful.

“People, including an Irish government minister and other politicians, attending a Hume Foundation conference looking at moving forward and building relationships have been evacuated.

“This is a reckless sectarian attack and will cause huge disruption to the local community as Police are advising them to leave their homes.

“Those responsible are trying to drag us back, we will continue to work for the future.

“There is no place in society for this type of activity and anyone with information on this attack should immediately report it to the PSNI.”

Tim Attwood, from the Foundation, told the PA news agency that the security alert is a reminder “to everyone that there is no role in our society for violence”.

He added: “A suspect device will not stop the work of the John and Pat Hume Foundation.”