UK deeply concerned by young people's role in Northern Ireland violence

Britain's government is deeply concerned that young people have been encouraged to take part in violence in Northern Ireland, the British province's minister said on Tuesday, urging all sides to work together to uphold the peace.

A protester stands next to fire as police officers hold their shields during a protest in the Loyalist Tigers Bay Area of Belfast, Northern Ireland April 9, 2021. REUTERS/Jason Cairnduff

LONDON - Saying he understood the frustration over COVID-19 restrictions and difficulties produced from part of Britain's Brexit trade deal with the European Union, Lewis told parliament: "The violence witnessed last week is totally unacceptable."

"It is tragic and deeply concerning that young people have been engaged in, and encouraged into, this violence."

(Reporting by Sarah Young and Paul Sandle; writing by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Kate Holton)