FIRST minister Carwyn Jones has used a visit to a Polish Welsh Association centre in Carmarthenshire to speak of his disgust at the rise in racist abuse suffered by ethnic minorities in Wales since last week’s EU referendum.

Mr Jones attended Llanelli’s Polish Welsh Association today (Thursday) and praised the contribution immigrants have made to Wales while reassuring foreign nationals that the increase in abusive behaviour would not be tolerated.

“I am shocked and appalled by the increase in racial tensions and verbal abuse towards people from ethnic minority communities during the past week,” said Mr Jones.

“We will not stand for any form of racism in Wales and we will tackle this unacceptable behaviour head on.

“Nobody should suffer any form of hostility or prejudice and I encourage victims to contact the police or Victim Support Cymru to report incidents.

“Migrants have made, and continue to make, an immense contribution to Welsh life and I want to reassure foreign nationals living here that they remain valued members of our society. Please hear my message loud and clear – you are still welcome here.”

Mr Jones also made efforts to stress that abuse and racism was limited to a small minority of individuals.

“While I have been disgusted by the racial abuse endured by some, I have also been heartened by the public outpouring of support and gratitude for ethnic communities living in Wales,” he said.

“I was immensely proud to hear about the note of thanks pinned anonymously on the door of Llanelli’s Polish Welsh Association.

“I sincerely hope all other communities follow this wonderful example.”