Press Releases06 Jan 10

Statement on UDA Decommissioning from Bishops of Northern Province of the Church of Ireland

Today’s announcement confirming the putting beyond use of all UDA weapons is to be warmly welcomed and gives encouragement at the beginning of this New Year. It marks a major step towards building a peaceful, stable and just society. It is our hope that the removal of the means to paramilitary violence will be received positively by all and give confidence to our politically elected representatives. It is important for all strands of our community to find productive ways of expressing their political and cultural aspirations with respect for everyone.

We respect the integrity and judgement of Lord Eames and Sir George Quigley in the independent eye-witnessing process and of General John de Chastelain’s confirmation of it.

We remember in our prayers the families of all who have lost loved-ones or been affected as a result of conflict in our society.

The Most Revd Alan Harper, OBE,
Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland

The Right Revd Dr Michael Jackson,
Bishop of Clogher

The Right Revd Ken Good,
Bishop of Derry and Raphoe

The Right Revd Harold Miller,
Bishop of Down and Dromore

The Right Revd Alan Abernethy,
Bishop of Connor

The Right Revd Ken Clarke,
Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh

The Right Revd Dr Richard Henderson,
Bishop of Tuam, Killala and Achonry