Holocaust memorial day will help us ‘ensure we challenge hatred and bigotry’

Mr Durkan, who joined students from Londonderry on a trip to the former Nazi concentration camp Auchwitz-Birkenau in Oświęcim, Poland in 2008, said: “As antisemitism, racism and prejudice are still present in society Holocaust Memorial Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the evil that was perpetrated during the Holocaust and pledge to create a brighter future.

“It is an important opportunity to remember the victims not only of the Holocaust but subsequent genocides. I encourage everyone to mark the day and to join the fight against prejudice and intolerance.”

This week he signed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons.

Sunday, January 27, will mark the 68th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Karen Pollock, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: “We are proud that Mark Durkan is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day this year. It is vitally important that we both remember and learn from the appalling events of the Holocaust – as well as ensuring that we continue to challenge all forms of hatred and bigotry.”