"In the present difficult and tense political situation it is understandable that deeply felt feelings and anger can erupt into serious confrontation as has been happening in the Ardoyne area of North Belfast over recent days.

"Whatever the origins of the present trouble or the rights and wrongs of how it began, it is imperative now that everyone steps back from confrontation to help those, including the police, seeking to resolve the difficulties. For the sake of those living in the area there is a need to go back to the situation where however uneasy the peace, people can go about their business, children attend their schools and shoppers get to the shops in safety and without harassment.

"It would help too if people from outside Ardoyne did not go there to get involved in rioting and civil disturbance."