Politicians condemn those behind van covered in racist graffiti in west Belfast
A company logo on the side suggests the van belongs to Equans, a long-time contractor for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
SDLP West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty described the attack as 'disgraceful'.
'The racist graffiti daubed on a Housing Executive vehicle in Bearnagh Drive today was disgraceful and has no place in our society,' he said.
"This vile act does not reflect the people of this community. A community built on respect, diversity and solidarity. No family should have to walk past that kind of hatred.'
Mr Doherty said he reported the incident to the PSNI.
'I've flagged this with the police and hope the vehicle can be removed by Housing Executive staff as soon as possible. Those responsible should be ashamed. We stand united against racism in all its forms.'
Sinn Féin's Paul Maskey also condemned the graffiti.
The West Belfast MP said: 'Overnight in Andersontown, a company van was sprayed with disgusting xenophobic slurs, designed to spread fear and hatred.
'Our activists were in the area today speaking to local residents and the vehicle owner, all of whom are outraged.
'We have reported this to PSNI and I would urge anyone with information to please bring it forward.
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'Those involved do not speak for the vast majority of west Belfast. Andersonstown is a welcoming community — one which I am proud to be part of and represent.
'Our resolve is steadfast. Racism will not win.'
The PSNI have been contacted for comment.
Equans says on its website that it has been 'providing repairs, maintenance, heating and refurbishment services to more than 45,000 homes across the region' for more than two decades.
'The Northern Ireland team has also recently been awarded funding by the NI Sustainable Energy Programme to provide full heating and housing solutions to low income households, helping them become safe, comfortable, and energy efficient,' the website adds.
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