Minister’s shop sign fury Condemnation of anti-Israeli ‘political statement’

MULTICULTURAL Affairs Minister Grace Grace has condemned a Cairns businessman for refusing to serve Israelis at his piercing studio.

Cold Steel Piercing owner Mark Bryce has stirred controversy after allegedly refusing to serve an Israeli backpacker last week.

Mr Bryce, who has owned his business in Lake St for 10 years, has had a sign the whole time above his store counter stating “No Israelis served here”.

He says it is not a racist or anti-religious statement, rather his actions are politically motivated.

Minister Grace said Mr Bryce’s actions were “extremely disturbing”.

“We have an Anti-Discrimination Commission in Queensland and I would encourage any person affected by the reported incident to contact the local Anti-Discrimination office in Cairns,” she said.

“There’s absolutely no place in Queensland for discrimination based on nationality, race or religion.

“I condemn in the strongest possible terms any behaviour that belittles or demeans anyone, just because they come from a particular country.

“Queensland has a wellearned reputation as an inclusive and harmonious place that welcomes visitors from all around the world.

“We can’t afford to have this proud reputation put at risk by those seeking to sow division.”

The commission has not received any official complaints about the signage, which Mr Bryce has since taken down from his studio.

Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich said he, too, was aghast at the Cairns business owner’s conduct.

“The diseased clouds of bigotry and Israeli-hatred have clearly darkened the skies of Cairns,” he said.

“This blatant act of exclusion stains our community and must be denounced vigorously by all leaders.

“Such a shameful display of discrimination violates and betrays the Australian spirit of civility, inclusiveness and respect for people of all backgrounds and countries.”