People Before Profit spokesperson Shaun Harkin has accused the DUP of hypocrisy and using recent attacks and anti-social behaviour in the Waterside area to heighten tensions.

"People Before Profit unreservedly condemn the recent reported sectarian attacks on the Peace Bridge and the Waterside," he said.

"Derry has a proud history of challenging bigotry and continues to be at the forefront of fighting for equality, respect and justice for all.

"These attacks have no place in our city and in no way represent the people of Derry. We offer our full solidarity with the victims and stand with everyone committed to challenging all forms of sectarianism, bigotry and racism.

"Hypocrisy must also be challenged. The DUP are in no position to challenge the sectarianism that continues to blight and poison our society. Establishment political parties and institutions must take responsibility and be held accountable for constantly whipping up sectarian tension especially at this time of year. DUP representatives have seized upon this issue to further heighten sectarian tensions.

Mr Harkin accused the DUP of fostering 'us versus them' feelings in Derry.

"Recently there have also been alleged sexual assaults involving young people in the same area but the DUP decided issues have only become 'serious' now because this issue doesn't fit into the 'us' verus 'them' framework upon which they opportunistically build support," he said.

"To eradicate sectarianism we need a genuine alternative to the parties and institutions sustaining it and thriving off it. This includes media outlets and overpaid media hosts who thrive on sensationalising sectarian attitudes and responses.

He encouraged people not to judge Derry's young people as they are continually 'failed' by political institutions.

"People Before Profit also urge that these incidents not be used to further demonise young people in the city," said Mr Harkin.

The challenges young people in all communities here face are well documented. Our political institutions continue to fail our young people and are responsible for sowing division, generating hopelessness, fear and hate.

"We need to make sure young people are understood, respected and have a voice. We need to continue to campaign for the type of city that generates hope, optimism and goodwill. This means living wage jobs, abolishing student fees, fully funding public services, expanding Magee University, upgrading infrastructure, education and training programs, and much more.

"We all deserve a society free from sectarian hatred, racism and bigotry of all kinds. People Before Profit will continue to work towards a politics that can bring working people in all communities together in common struggle. We will rise together or go down together."