|
|
|
Presbyterian Moderator Dr Harry Allen has issued the following statement regarding the situation arising at Drumcree
Regardless of the decision taken by the Chief Constable of the RUC regarding Drumcree, it was inevitable that one section of the community would feel strongly aggrieved.
I would appeal for calmness and patience and would urge all involved to obey the rule of law however unpalatable that may be. To give in to bitterness or violence is to lose whatever argument one may have.
Recognising the very good behaviour displayed by the No. 10 District in Ballynafeigh during two recent parades, I would commend them and urge all those concerned at Drumcree to maintain their high standards.
I would urge both sides in this argument to go on talking as there is no possibility of peace in confrontation. Acceptable agreements must be found so that those who wish to parade may do so in a manner and frequency that residents can accommodate. This should be done well in advance of parades as brinkmanship only leads to increased tension and damages fragile community relations.
People have a right to protest but it must always be restrained and dignified. Threats should never be the grounds on which serious decisions are reached.
If we are to be allowed again to live peaceably side-by-side then the animosities of recent years of conflict must be replaced by a willingness to listen to, to respect and to accept each other.
I pray that peace and wisdom and a willingness to listen to each other's point of view will lead to a settlement of the problem.
PCI Home . . . Press Office . . . News Archive