SINN Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has said reports that the British government will outline plans to end participation in the single market and the customs union ending are very concerning.
The East Derry MLA said: “It has been clear from the very start this was a referendum to appease the right wing of the British Tory party.
“It has been driven by a thoroughly negative and insular anti-immigration agenda. Remaining in the singe market is not possible without freedom of movement of people.
“Those who have come to the north from other European Union countries have been expressing their concerns about their futures since the referendum result, this will likely add to their concerns.
“Before Christmas I met with a local Ethnic Minority Support Worker in Coleraine and was told of these types of concerns.
“I was also told of how there have been increased instances of racist behaviour and that people from ethnic minority backgrounds are reporting increased feelings of fear and a change in attitude towards them since the referendum.
“It is abhorrent that this is happening, as a society we need to challenge these dangerous and negative attitudes.
“Those who have come from other countries and made their homes here make an invaluable contribution to our society and economy, they need to be assured of their future in this country,” she added.
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