Northern Ireland's economic future is being put in jeopardy by continuing sectarian violence, business leaders have warned.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said the prosperity of the province was under serious threat.

The CBI made the statement as it gave its backing to a demonstration against sectarianism, set to take place at Belfast City Hall on Friday.

The group's Northern Ireland spokesman, Nigel Smyth, said: "We are competing in a global environment where investment and tourists are highly mobile.

Cars were burned during clashes

"The entire community must realise that these unacceptable activities are putting Belfast's and Northern Ireland's future prosperity at risk," said Mr Smyth.

"We support the anti-sectarian motion put forward by Belfast City Council and are encouraging our members to facilitate support for the lunchtime rally on Friday."

Friday's demonstration was called after the sectarian murder of north Belfast teenager Gerard Lawlor.

The 19-year-old Catholic was shot dead by the loyalist Ulster Freedom Fighters as he walked home after a night out. He was buried last Wednesday.

Talks

Meanwhile, the Northern Ireland Office Minister, Des Browne, is to meet representatives of the political parties at Stormont on Wednesday.

It is expected the talks will focus on violence taking place at interface areas in Belfast.

Last weekend saw serious disturbances near Belfast city centre when loyalist youths clashed with police in the Sandy Row area.

Cars were burned and shops damaged in two consecutive nights of trouble, which took place near an international hostel for backpackers.

Fire crews were also attacked by stonethrowers while trying to deal with blazing vehicles.

The CBI said these were the appalling scenes that must be stopped if the international image of the province was to improve.