DUP leader attends event marking the end of Muslim holy month

DUP leader Arlene Foster marked the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan today during a visit organised by Belfast Islamic Centre.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Jun 2018, 14:23 BST
Updated 19th Jun 2018, 16:51 BST
DUP leader Arlene Foster gets a henna design from Syifaa Nabir during her visit to S13 organised by the Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, Press EyeDUP leader Arlene Foster gets a henna design from Syifaa Nabir during her visit to S13 organised by the Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, Press Eye
DUP leader Arlene Foster gets a henna design from Syifaa Nabir during her visit to S13 organised by the Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, Press Eye

The former First Minister was joined at the event at S13 on Belfast’s Boucher Road by South Belfast MP Emma Little-Pengelly.

“In my recent speech in London I said unionism stands for pluralism and multiculturalism,” Mrs Foster said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We should be inclusive and welcome all. I meant that then and I mean it now.

DUP leader Arlene Foster with Dr Raied Al-Wazzan (right) and Dr Saleem Tareen during her visit organised by Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, PressEyeDUP leader Arlene Foster with Dr Raied Al-Wazzan (right) and Dr Saleem Tareen during her visit organised by Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, PressEye
DUP leader Arlene Foster with Dr Raied Al-Wazzan (right) and Dr Saleem Tareen during her visit organised by Belfast Islamic Centre. Pic by Freddie Parkinson, PressEye

“I want to genuinely reach out to our minority communities and show them the hand of friendship, recognising they have made Northern Ireland their home,” she continued.

“I love Northern Ireland and I want everyone who calls this place their home to feel at home here.”

Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan, the month during which Muslims fast during daylight hours and refrain from sexual activity, among other things.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Four years ago former DUP leader Peter Robinson sparked controversy with his comments about Muslims while defending firebrand preacher Pastor James McConnell.

Mr Robinson later issued a public apology for his remarks and paid a visit to the Belfast Islamic Centre.

Related topics:Arlene FosterDUPPeter RobinsonFirst MinisterBelfast