London - The Romanian immigrant community in Belfast suffered a fresh attack, police said Thursday, in the wake of a spate of xenophobic incidents that have left
20 families taking shelter in a local church.

The windows of the home of a Romanian family in south Belfast were smashed by thugs throwing stones late Wednesday night.

Although no one was hurt in the attack, police evacuated the family.

The Romanian consul in Belfast is expected to meet government representatives Thursday to discuss the situation.

Earlier this week a mob chased a group of 115 Romanians out of their homes. The 20 families finally took refuge in a Belfast church.

The attacks, which police are classifying as a hate crime, have been condemned by both unionist and nationalist politicians in the province. (dpa)