Press Releases
DRUMCREE VIOLENCE
The violence which occurred on the hill at Drumcree yesterday was deplorable, disgusting and completely unacceptable.
All condemnation of those scenes must be without reservation. The verbal and physical attacks on the police have once more portrayed the ugly face of violence in this Province across the world.
Nothing can excuse such thuggery. I extend my sincere sympathy to those officers who were injured and pray that they will soon recover.
All of us who have been working patiently and consistently during the past year to encourage a solution to the Drumcree/Garvaghy Road problem feel great disappointment today that yesterday’s events have further frustrated our efforts.
But nothing must be allowed to deter our determination to find a solution which will honour the deeply held views of the two communities involved. Violence can have no place in that solution. A solution is possible and it must emerge soon.
While unreserved condemnation of yesterday’s events must be made those events must further strengthen our wills to find a solution.
Despite our frustration and disappointment we cannot walk away from this problem.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH
Tel: (028) 9023 2909
Fax: (028) 9032 3554
Email:The Press Office