In the 23 years since the Belfast / Good Friday Agreement, it is not an exaggeration to say that the peace process has never been as vulnerable as it is now.

Thankfully, as I saw on my recent visit to Belfast, communities are showing real leadership, doing what they can to lower tensions. I visited some of the areas that have been most affected by the violence and disorder of recent weeks, and witnessed first-hand the courage of community leaders who stepped in to prevent a dangerous escalation in violence.

But I also saw and heard that deprivation and alienation is fuelling disillusionment. It is time that the Prime Minister showed some responsibility. He should be in Northern Ireland, hearing the concerns I’ve heard for himself.