The Party Organiser of the Alliance Party, Stephen Farry, has welcomed the opening of an integrated school in Dungannon by the Secretary of State but has pointed out that there are three integrated schools that are still awaiting a Government decision to grant them public funding.
Stephen Farry stated:
“The Alliance Party welcomes the opening of an integrated school in Dungannon. Its opening by the Secretary of State is highly symbolic. Hopefully, it signifies a renewed commitment by the Government to integrated schooling.
“However, there are three integrated schools currently operating in Northern Ireland without public funds: Strangford, Ullidia, and Oakwood. These schools have met the criteria for funding laid down by the Government. Alliance looks forward to a positive decision from the Department of Education to fund these schools, in the very near future.
“Integrated education has the potential to further understanding across the community. Opinion polls show a very high demand among parents for access to this type of schooling, yet today only 3% of Northern Ireland school chlidren attend such schools. It is a major public policy deficiency when public funds are used to bolster segregated education but don't address integrated needs.”
07 December 1998
06 November 1998
Sinn Fein must accept their responsibilities: McGarry
Alliance President, Dr Philip McGarry, has said that Sinn Fein needs to take its share of responsibility for moving the political process forward, rather than continuing to blame everybody else.
Dr McGarry said:
“This has been a very bad week for Sinn Fein. On Tuesday night in Brussels they caused great embarrassment to themselves by their insulting treatment of one of the European Union’s most senior officials.
“Their negative and churlish response to President McAlease’s indication that the Queen might soon visit Dublin was a mirror image of the surly response of the DUP to the visits to Northern Ireland by the President of the Republic.
“Figures released this week show that republicans are continuing to shot and beat people, despite the early release of large numbers of IRA prisoners. Meanwhile there is little evidence that Sinn Fein wants to make even a gesture on decommissioning.
“Everybody has a responsibility to play their part in creating a new and peaceful Northern Ireland. Sinn Fein by their actions over the last week, have shown every indication of blaming everybody else while making no real effort themselves.”
Dr McGarry said:
“This has been a very bad week for Sinn Fein. On Tuesday night in Brussels they caused great embarrassment to themselves by their insulting treatment of one of the European Union’s most senior officials.
“Their negative and churlish response to President McAlease’s indication that the Queen might soon visit Dublin was a mirror image of the surly response of the DUP to the visits to Northern Ireland by the President of the Republic.
“Figures released this week show that republicans are continuing to shot and beat people, despite the early release of large numbers of IRA prisoners. Meanwhile there is little evidence that Sinn Fein wants to make even a gesture on decommissioning.
“Everybody has a responsibility to play their part in creating a new and peaceful Northern Ireland. Sinn Fein by their actions over the last week, have shown every indication of blaming everybody else while making no real effort themselves.”
18 October 1998
Trimble must not breach Agreement over decommissioning: Neeson
Alliance Leader Sean Neeson and the party’s Justice Spokesperson Steve McBride will meet tomorrow, Monday 19 October, with General John de Chastelain, Chairman of the Decommissioning Body. Speaking in advance of the meeting Sean Neeson insisted that the decommissioning issue not be allowed to delay the process any longer.
Sean Neeson said:
“Decommissioning has been allowed to fester like an open wound in the side of the Agreement. Republicans and Loyalists should look upon decommissioning as an opportunity to build confidence in the process across the community. But Unionists must not look upon it as a precondition to fulfilling the obligations that rest on David Trimble as First Minister. He must move immediately to establish the Executive.
“If the Executive is not formed then the North-South Ministerial Council cannot be established before the October 31 deadline. If that deadline is missed then David Trimble and the Ulster Unionists will have breached the Agreement. We cannot afford to ignore deadlines as though they do not matter. David Trimble should seize upon the goodwill being shown towards him in the wake of the Nobel Prize and get the implementation of the Agreement back on track.”
NOTES:
The Alliance Party representatives will meet with the Decommissioning Body at 2.00pm on Monday at Rosepark House.
Sean Neeson said:
“Decommissioning has been allowed to fester like an open wound in the side of the Agreement. Republicans and Loyalists should look upon decommissioning as an opportunity to build confidence in the process across the community. But Unionists must not look upon it as a precondition to fulfilling the obligations that rest on David Trimble as First Minister. He must move immediately to establish the Executive.
“If the Executive is not formed then the North-South Ministerial Council cannot be established before the October 31 deadline. If that deadline is missed then David Trimble and the Ulster Unionists will have breached the Agreement. We cannot afford to ignore deadlines as though they do not matter. David Trimble should seize upon the goodwill being shown towards him in the wake of the Nobel Prize and get the implementation of the Agreement back on track.”
NOTES:
The Alliance Party representatives will meet with the Decommissioning Body at 2.00pm on Monday at Rosepark House.
15 October 1998
Alliance backs Lords reform
Alliance Youth Affairs Spokesperson, Michael Long, has indicated his support for the debate on reforming the House of Lords during which the Governmemt has decided to abolish hereditary peerages.
Mr Long welcomed this decision saying:
"It is high time that this institution was overhauled so that the second chamber at Westminister is more representative of the general public. This decision to abolish hereditary peerages is a step in the right direction as this group is totally unrepresentative of the public at large. Apparently 45% of them were educated at Eton whilst both women and young people are hugely under represented.
"The Alliance Party believe that abolition of hereditary peerages should be followed to further reform so that the second chamber is more inclusive, so better fulfilling its function as a check on the government.
"It is time that those from all social classes and both genders were represented more fully, and as youth affairs spokesperson I feel that it is vital that all age groups are more equally represented through the appointment of more younger members. This will mean that the views of young people can be better heard and so more effectively represented."
Mr Long welcomed this decision saying:
"It is high time that this institution was overhauled so that the second chamber at Westminister is more representative of the general public. This decision to abolish hereditary peerages is a step in the right direction as this group is totally unrepresentative of the public at large. Apparently 45% of them were educated at Eton whilst both women and young people are hugely under represented.
"The Alliance Party believe that abolition of hereditary peerages should be followed to further reform so that the second chamber is more inclusive, so better fulfilling its function as a check on the government.
"It is time that those from all social classes and both genders were represented more fully, and as youth affairs spokesperson I feel that it is vital that all age groups are more equally represented through the appointment of more younger members. This will mean that the views of young people can be better heard and so more effectively represented."
Alliance welcomes salt reduction
The Consumer Affairs Spokesperson for the Alliance Party Jan Campbell, has welcomed the recent announcement from the supermarket chain ASDA that their suppliers of own branded goods have been asked to reduce the salt levels in certain foods.
Jan Campbell said:
"This is great news for the consumer as 80% of our salt intake is already in the food we eat, especially in processed foods. This makes it difficult to reduce what can be a potentially lethal substance for those with blood pressure and heart condition.
"The lower salt products will be a healthier alternative offering the choice for the consumer to add salt if required as previously the salt was being added by the manufacturer. Hopefully the supermarket chains in Northern Ireland will follow suit and people in Northern Ireland will be offered a similar choice."
Jan Campbell said:
"This is great news for the consumer as 80% of our salt intake is already in the food we eat, especially in processed foods. This makes it difficult to reduce what can be a potentially lethal substance for those with blood pressure and heart condition.
"The lower salt products will be a healthier alternative offering the choice for the consumer to add salt if required as previously the salt was being added by the manufacturer. Hopefully the supermarket chains in Northern Ireland will follow suit and people in Northern Ireland will be offered a similar choice."
06 October 1998
Constable O'Reilly "a victom of naked sectarianism": Neeson
Alliance Party Leader, Sean Neeson has expressed his deep sorrow at the death of Constable O’Reilly, and has extended his sympathy to the family.
Mr Nesson said:
“Constable O’Reilly is a victim of the poison of naked sectarianism which flaunts itself daily on the streets of Portadown.
“I plead to all those involved in the conflict there to get round the table and to sort out their difficulties.
“Otherwise I fear that further sorrow will be inflicted on other innocent families.”
Mr Nesson said:
“Constable O’Reilly is a victim of the poison of naked sectarianism which flaunts itself daily on the streets of Portadown.
“I plead to all those involved in the conflict there to get round the table and to sort out their difficulties.
“Otherwise I fear that further sorrow will be inflicted on other innocent families.”
29 September 1998
Neeson hits out at vandals
ALLIANCE Party Leader Sean Neeson has slammed whoever was responsible for last weekend’s attack at St. Comgall’s Intermediate School in Larne.
And Mr. Neeson - who is an assembly member for East Antrim - has called on the North Easter and Education and Library Board to provide security cameras at the school.
The Alliance Party Leader, a former teacher of history at the school, believes that the installation of cameras might prevent vandals from targeting the school in the future.
Mr. Neeson, who visited the ransacked school yesterday afternoon, also urged vandals to think about the “terrible consequences” of their actions.
“I would like to condemn this wanton destruction and ask these people to think about the devastating effect their actions are having on the local community,” said Mr. Neeson.
“We must not tolerate this type of behaviour and I would urge the NEELB to seriously consider the possibility of using cameras at the schools.
“I think this action is necessary because the school, which is situated in an isolated area, has been attacked on numerous occasions.
“Extensive damage has been caused at the school and as a former teacher, it breaks my heart to hear about these type of attacks.
“I hope the police are successful in apprehending the culprits and I hope we have seen the last of such attacks.
“However I will still be calling on the education board to install the cameras - sooner rather than later,” added the assemblyman.
And Mr. Neeson - who is an assembly member for East Antrim - has called on the North Easter and Education and Library Board to provide security cameras at the school.
The Alliance Party Leader, a former teacher of history at the school, believes that the installation of cameras might prevent vandals from targeting the school in the future.
Mr. Neeson, who visited the ransacked school yesterday afternoon, also urged vandals to think about the “terrible consequences” of their actions.
“I would like to condemn this wanton destruction and ask these people to think about the devastating effect their actions are having on the local community,” said Mr. Neeson.
“We must not tolerate this type of behaviour and I would urge the NEELB to seriously consider the possibility of using cameras at the schools.
“I think this action is necessary because the school, which is situated in an isolated area, has been attacked on numerous occasions.
“Extensive damage has been caused at the school and as a former teacher, it breaks my heart to hear about these type of attacks.
“I hope the police are successful in apprehending the culprits and I hope we have seen the last of such attacks.
“However I will still be calling on the education board to install the cameras - sooner rather than later,” added the assemblyman.
McCarthy calls for establishment of civic forum
STRANGFORD Assemblyman Kieran McCarthy has urged Northern Ireland’s new government to speed up the process of establishing a civic forum.
The Alliance Party representative said that such a body would help boost the peace process and make the assembly more “accountable”.
He said that, with community, business and voluntary representatives on board, the people of Northern Ireland would help create a “much better” future.
And Mr. McCarthy further claimed that - when the new structure is finally up an running - the people of County Down will also have an important role to play in its implementation.
“Assembly members may have the duty of governing Northern Ireland - but the people will also have an important role to play,” explained the Assemblyman.
“I firmly believe that a civic forum, where members of the assembly and the population work together, would be of vital importance to the people of Northern Ireland.
“We know that the civic forum is high on the agenda of the assembly members - but it’s essential that the tempo of this process is increased.
“We have seen how successful the partnerships involving the business, community, voluntary and political sector has been in recent years - and this must continue.
“I think that the people of Northern Ireland and the people of Co. Down will all contribute positively to the civic forum.
“For it is clear that all of our assembly members should make moves to establish this body where everyone can have their say on how we are governed.”
The Alliance Party representative said that such a body would help boost the peace process and make the assembly more “accountable”.
He said that, with community, business and voluntary representatives on board, the people of Northern Ireland would help create a “much better” future.
And Mr. McCarthy further claimed that - when the new structure is finally up an running - the people of County Down will also have an important role to play in its implementation.
“Assembly members may have the duty of governing Northern Ireland - but the people will also have an important role to play,” explained the Assemblyman.
“I firmly believe that a civic forum, where members of the assembly and the population work together, would be of vital importance to the people of Northern Ireland.
“We know that the civic forum is high on the agenda of the assembly members - but it’s essential that the tempo of this process is increased.
“We have seen how successful the partnerships involving the business, community, voluntary and political sector has been in recent years - and this must continue.
“I think that the people of Northern Ireland and the people of Co. Down will all contribute positively to the civic forum.
“For it is clear that all of our assembly members should make moves to establish this body where everyone can have their say on how we are governed.”
09 September 1998
Alliance hits out at Cairnshill house build decision
A FORMER Castlereagh councillor has expressed outrage at the Environment Minister’s decision to allow 550 homes to be built in Cairnshill.
And Mrs. Margaret Marshall, who is the chairperson of the Alliance Party’s Castlereagh South Association, has called on the Department of the Environment to build a suitable play area in the borough.
Speaking after the announcement from Lord Dubs, the Alliance spokeswoman said:
“I absolutely deplore the DoE’s decision to build 550 new homes in the Cairnshill area of Castlereagh - it is an absolute disgrace.
“I attended the public inquiry in 1997 as an objector to the building of more homes and I emphasised the need for a children’s play area. And even though I attended the public inquiry, I have to hear of the minister’s decision from the media.
“1,500 new homes have already been built in this area and there is not one single play area for the children. However, I also think a public park should be built in the Cairnshill area - not more private dwellings.
“The DoE have always given planning permission without any requirements for open space, cycle tracks and play areas - so why can’t they do it in the Cairnshill area.”
Meanwhile the former councillor has called on Lord Dubs to build a “much needed” community centre in Cairnshill and urged DoE chiefs to allocate land for the centre “immediately”.
And Mrs. Margaret Marshall, who is the chairperson of the Alliance Party’s Castlereagh South Association, has called on the Department of the Environment to build a suitable play area in the borough.
Speaking after the announcement from Lord Dubs, the Alliance spokeswoman said:
“I absolutely deplore the DoE’s decision to build 550 new homes in the Cairnshill area of Castlereagh - it is an absolute disgrace.
“I attended the public inquiry in 1997 as an objector to the building of more homes and I emphasised the need for a children’s play area. And even though I attended the public inquiry, I have to hear of the minister’s decision from the media.
“1,500 new homes have already been built in this area and there is not one single play area for the children. However, I also think a public park should be built in the Cairnshill area - not more private dwellings.
“The DoE have always given planning permission without any requirements for open space, cycle tracks and play areas - so why can’t they do it in the Cairnshill area.”
Meanwhile the former councillor has called on Lord Dubs to build a “much needed” community centre in Cairnshill and urged DoE chiefs to allocate land for the centre “immediately”.
Bell urges Assembly Members to "work tirelessly" for North Down
NORTH Down shadow assembly members will have to work “tirelessly” for the benefit of the constituency, a leading member of the Alliance Party said today.
Mrs. Eileen Bell said it was essential for the borough’s Alliance, Ulster Unionist, Women’s Coalition and United Kingdom Unionist assembly members to work together for everyone in the area.
But the Alliance Party Chairperson also pointed out that the North Down assembly members must work harder to remove what, she says is, the “gold coast” image of the borough.
Mrs. Bell insists that if the borough’s assembly members strive to improve the image of the borough - then the possibility of more economic investment will be greatly enhanced.
Speaking after attending yesterday’s meeting of assembly members at Stormont, Mrs. Bell said that “only time will tell” if her fellow politicians are prepared to work together.
“Whilst recognising that it is our duty to take an interest in the wider problems facing Northern Ireland - we still have an obligation to protect the interests of our constituencies,” she said.
“And as an assembly member for North Down, I will be doing my best to improving the image of the borough and I will be listening to what people have to say.
“Many people throughout Northern Ireland often refer to this constituency as the ‘gold coast’ but this is totally wrong and totally inaccurate.
“It might be a more prosperous area compared to other parts of Northern Ireland but it still needs more investment.
“I raised this matter with delegates from the US Presidential team when they visited Northern Ireland last week. However, I will be still pressing from more economic investment when the assembly reconvenes on Monday,” added Mrs. Bell.
Mrs. Eileen Bell said it was essential for the borough’s Alliance, Ulster Unionist, Women’s Coalition and United Kingdom Unionist assembly members to work together for everyone in the area.
But the Alliance Party Chairperson also pointed out that the North Down assembly members must work harder to remove what, she says is, the “gold coast” image of the borough.
Mrs. Bell insists that if the borough’s assembly members strive to improve the image of the borough - then the possibility of more economic investment will be greatly enhanced.
Speaking after attending yesterday’s meeting of assembly members at Stormont, Mrs. Bell said that “only time will tell” if her fellow politicians are prepared to work together.
“Whilst recognising that it is our duty to take an interest in the wider problems facing Northern Ireland - we still have an obligation to protect the interests of our constituencies,” she said.
“And as an assembly member for North Down, I will be doing my best to improving the image of the borough and I will be listening to what people have to say.
“Many people throughout Northern Ireland often refer to this constituency as the ‘gold coast’ but this is totally wrong and totally inaccurate.
“It might be a more prosperous area compared to other parts of Northern Ireland but it still needs more investment.
“I raised this matter with delegates from the US Presidential team when they visited Northern Ireland last week. However, I will be still pressing from more economic investment when the assembly reconvenes on Monday,” added Mrs. Bell.
02 September 1998
Scots Guard releases are "insensitive": Alliance
Gerry Lynch, Chairperson of North Belfast Alliance, has branded the
Secretary of State's Handling of the release of Guardsmen Fisher and Wright
as 'grossly insensitive'.
Gerry said:
"The early release of prisoners is never easy, but to release these men so
close to the anniversary of Mr McBride's death is grossly insensitive. The
insufficient notice given to the McBride family about the releases raises
very serious questions about both the NIO and the Secretary of State's
handling of this case.
"71% of people in Northern Ireland backed the Good Friday Agreement, which
included prisoner releases. In that context the release of Messrs Wright
and Fisher was essential. However, their convictions remain, and it would
be deeply worrying if people convicted of murder were allowed to remain
serving with the armed forces."
Secretary of State's Handling of the release of Guardsmen Fisher and Wright
as 'grossly insensitive'.
Gerry said:
"The early release of prisoners is never easy, but to release these men so
close to the anniversary of Mr McBride's death is grossly insensitive. The
insufficient notice given to the McBride family about the releases raises
very serious questions about both the NIO and the Secretary of State's
handling of this case.
"71% of people in Northern Ireland backed the Good Friday Agreement, which
included prisoner releases. In that context the release of Messrs Wright
and Fisher was essential. However, their convictions remain, and it would
be deeply worrying if people convicted of murder were allowed to remain
serving with the armed forces."
11 August 1998
Alliance praises conservation volunteers
MEMBERS of the Conservation Volunteers should be commended by Carrickfergus Borough Council for their refurbishment work along the Blackhead Path, according to a local councillor.
The Alliance Party’s Robin Cavan, who is a councillor for the Kilroot area of the borough, made the claim after visiting the historic path last weekend.
He described the work by the volunteers as “tremendous” and said the council should take “immediate steps” to honour the group’s efforts.
Assisted by a £5,000 grant from Carrickfergus Borough Council, the conservationists have worked on the path’s ‘golden stairs’ and have constructed a drainage channel to cope with outbreaks of heavy rain.
Councillor Cavan, who is a constant visitor to the path, also said the work carried out by the volunteers will be a “major boost” to walkers and ramblers in across East Antrim.
“After visiting the path last weekend, and viewing the work that was carried out by the conservation volunteers, I think it is only proper that the local council should commend the group,” said Mr. Cavan.
“The money they received from the council has been put to good use and they have worked tirelessly to refurbish the path.
“Their work means that all types of people will be able to enjoy the path and I hope that people do use it because it has a lot to offer.
“It is a vital part of the borough’s tourist industry and the walk along the path is both pleasurable and enjoyable for people of all ages,” he added.
The Alliance Party’s Robin Cavan, who is a councillor for the Kilroot area of the borough, made the claim after visiting the historic path last weekend.
He described the work by the volunteers as “tremendous” and said the council should take “immediate steps” to honour the group’s efforts.
Assisted by a £5,000 grant from Carrickfergus Borough Council, the conservationists have worked on the path’s ‘golden stairs’ and have constructed a drainage channel to cope with outbreaks of heavy rain.
Councillor Cavan, who is a constant visitor to the path, also said the work carried out by the volunteers will be a “major boost” to walkers and ramblers in across East Antrim.
“After visiting the path last weekend, and viewing the work that was carried out by the conservation volunteers, I think it is only proper that the local council should commend the group,” said Mr. Cavan.
“The money they received from the council has been put to good use and they have worked tirelessly to refurbish the path.
“Their work means that all types of people will be able to enjoy the path and I hope that people do use it because it has a lot to offer.
“It is a vital part of the borough’s tourist industry and the walk along the path is both pleasurable and enjoyable for people of all ages,” he added.
Dickson heralds American visit as "great success"
ALDERMAN Stewart Dickson has described his recent visit to the American states of Florida and New Hampshire as a “great success”.
The Alliance Party delegate, accompanied by Councillor David Hillditch and Alderman Jim Brown, jetted off to America on July 24th to attend the prestigious ‘Sister Cities Convention’.
The convention, held in Florida and organised to highlight the positive aspects of towns and cities from around the world, featured workshops and lectures on a wide range of issues.
Tourism, economics, education, politics, cross-party relations and the environment were just some of the issues discussed at the convention.
Although the convention was “extremely important” to the Carrickfergus team, Mr. Dickson also described his meeting with representatives in the New Hampshire state of Portsmouth as “equally important”.
The Carrickfergus councillors spent the first week in Florida before embarking on their trip to Portsmouth where they discussed plans to organise transatlantic educational visits and websites.
Councillor Dickson, who returned from the visit last weekend, is now hoping to continue with the contact they established in Portsmouth.
“After the recent spate of trouble in the town, it was good to see something positive happening for Carrickfergus,” said the Alliance man.
“The convention enabled us to develop links with other cities and many of the delegates were impressed with what Carrickfergus had to offer.
“We were intending - despite the recent negative images of Carrickfergus - to set the record straight and inform the Americans of the positive aspects of our town.
“The convention was a great way of understanding other towns, cities and countries and I hope we can put our experience to good use,” added Alderman Dickson.
But Alderman Dickson, who narrowly missed out on a seat on the Northern Ireland shadow assembly, said the visit to Portsmouth would also stand as one of the “highlights” of the visit.
He said: “The convention we attended was a memorable experience - but so too was our visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
“Portsmouth is the sister city of Carrickfergus and many of the delegates we met were determined to launch various projects between the two towns.
“An educational visit has been planned for next year but delegates from Portsmouth are also keen to establish a web-site between the two towns.
“Our visit to Portsmouth made front page news and we were also on television. Overall, the visit was a tremendous success and I hope that Carrickfergus is now seen in a better light.”
The Alliance Party delegate, accompanied by Councillor David Hillditch and Alderman Jim Brown, jetted off to America on July 24th to attend the prestigious ‘Sister Cities Convention’.
The convention, held in Florida and organised to highlight the positive aspects of towns and cities from around the world, featured workshops and lectures on a wide range of issues.
Tourism, economics, education, politics, cross-party relations and the environment were just some of the issues discussed at the convention.
Although the convention was “extremely important” to the Carrickfergus team, Mr. Dickson also described his meeting with representatives in the New Hampshire state of Portsmouth as “equally important”.
The Carrickfergus councillors spent the first week in Florida before embarking on their trip to Portsmouth where they discussed plans to organise transatlantic educational visits and websites.
Councillor Dickson, who returned from the visit last weekend, is now hoping to continue with the contact they established in Portsmouth.
“After the recent spate of trouble in the town, it was good to see something positive happening for Carrickfergus,” said the Alliance man.
“The convention enabled us to develop links with other cities and many of the delegates were impressed with what Carrickfergus had to offer.
“We were intending - despite the recent negative images of Carrickfergus - to set the record straight and inform the Americans of the positive aspects of our town.
“The convention was a great way of understanding other towns, cities and countries and I hope we can put our experience to good use,” added Alderman Dickson.
But Alderman Dickson, who narrowly missed out on a seat on the Northern Ireland shadow assembly, said the visit to Portsmouth would also stand as one of the “highlights” of the visit.
He said: “The convention we attended was a memorable experience - but so too was our visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
“Portsmouth is the sister city of Carrickfergus and many of the delegates we met were determined to launch various projects between the two towns.
“An educational visit has been planned for next year but delegates from Portsmouth are also keen to establish a web-site between the two towns.
“Our visit to Portsmouth made front page news and we were also on television. Overall, the visit was a tremendous success and I hope that Carrickfergus is now seen in a better light.”
Alliance praises conservation volunteers
MEMBERS of the Conservation Volunteers should be commended by Carrickfergus Borough Council for their refurbishment work along the Blackhead Path, according to a local councillor.
The Alliance Party’s Robin Cavan, who is a councillor for the Kilroot area of the borough, made the claim after visiting the historic path last weekend.
He described the work by the volunteers as “tremendous” and said the council should take “immediate steps” to honour the group’s efforts.
Assisted by a £5,000 grant from Carrickfergus Borough Council, the conservationists have worked on the path’s ‘golden stairs’ and have constructed a drainage channel to cope with outbreaks of heavy rain.
Councillor Cavan, who is a constant visitor to the path, also said the work carried out by the volunteers will be a “major boost” to walkers and ramblers in across East Antrim.
“After visiting the path last weekend, and viewing the work that was carried out by the conservation volunteers, I think it is only proper that the local council should commend the group,” said Mr. Cavan.
“The money they received from the council has been put to good use and they have worked tirelessly to refurbish the path.
“Their work means that all types of people will be able to enjoy the path and I hope that people do use it because it has a lot to offer.
“It is a vital part of the borough’s tourist industry and the walk along the path is both pleasurable and enjoyable for people of all ages,” he added.
The Alliance Party’s Robin Cavan, who is a councillor for the Kilroot area of the borough, made the claim after visiting the historic path last weekend.
He described the work by the volunteers as “tremendous” and said the council should take “immediate steps” to honour the group’s efforts.
Assisted by a £5,000 grant from Carrickfergus Borough Council, the conservationists have worked on the path’s ‘golden stairs’ and have constructed a drainage channel to cope with outbreaks of heavy rain.
Councillor Cavan, who is a constant visitor to the path, also said the work carried out by the volunteers will be a “major boost” to walkers and ramblers in across East Antrim.
“After visiting the path last weekend, and viewing the work that was carried out by the conservation volunteers, I think it is only proper that the local council should commend the group,” said Mr. Cavan.
“The money they received from the council has been put to good use and they have worked tirelessly to refurbish the path.
“Their work means that all types of people will be able to enjoy the path and I hope that people do use it because it has a lot to offer.
“It is a vital part of the borough’s tourist industry and the walk along the path is both pleasurable and enjoyable for people of all ages,” he added.
Deafening silence from Irish Government on prisoner release call: McGarry
THE President of the Alliance Party, Dr. Philip McGarry has called on the Irish Government to confirm its commitment to releasing - by the year 2000 - paramilitary prisoners convicted of the murders of members of the Garda.
Dr. McGarry said that failure to do so would be an act of “bad faith”, which would indicate an unwillingness to support fully the Good Friday Agreement.
The Alliance President said: “Last week the Irish Government ordered the release of a member of the IRA who had been convicted of attempting to murder a policeman in England in 1992,” said Dr. McGarry.
“This decision, naturally enough, has caused distress to the relatives of the murdered police officer and illustrates clearly the sensitive nature of the early release of prisoners.
“Last Friday I called upon the Irish Government to confirm that those who had murdered members of the Garda would be released, as set out in the Good Friday Agreement, by June 2000. My call has been met with a deafening silence.
“I felt that it was important to do this in view of the fact that the Garda Representatives Association assertion that those convicted of the murder of Garda Hand in 1984 should not be released. This comes after the widespread speculation that if people are convicted of the 1996 murder of Gerry McCabe in Limerick they will not be released.
“This would clearly be an intolerable act of bad faith by the Irish government and would be an unacceptable breach of the Good Friday Agreement which has been endorsed overwhelmingly by the people of Ireland. The only inference that could be drawn from the failure to release such prisoners is that the Irish government is not committed to equality of treatment and fairness for all.
“I repeat my call to the Minister for Justice to make it crystal clear that those who have been convicted of the murders of members of the Garda on behalf of the IRA will all be released by June 2OOO,” added the Alliance Party President.
Dr. McGarry said that failure to do so would be an act of “bad faith”, which would indicate an unwillingness to support fully the Good Friday Agreement.
The Alliance President said: “Last week the Irish Government ordered the release of a member of the IRA who had been convicted of attempting to murder a policeman in England in 1992,” said Dr. McGarry.
“This decision, naturally enough, has caused distress to the relatives of the murdered police officer and illustrates clearly the sensitive nature of the early release of prisoners.
“Last Friday I called upon the Irish Government to confirm that those who had murdered members of the Garda would be released, as set out in the Good Friday Agreement, by June 2000. My call has been met with a deafening silence.
“I felt that it was important to do this in view of the fact that the Garda Representatives Association assertion that those convicted of the murder of Garda Hand in 1984 should not be released. This comes after the widespread speculation that if people are convicted of the 1996 murder of Gerry McCabe in Limerick they will not be released.
“This would clearly be an intolerable act of bad faith by the Irish government and would be an unacceptable breach of the Good Friday Agreement which has been endorsed overwhelmingly by the people of Ireland. The only inference that could be drawn from the failure to release such prisoners is that the Irish government is not committed to equality of treatment and fairness for all.
“I repeat my call to the Minister for Justice to make it crystal clear that those who have been convicted of the murders of members of the Garda on behalf of the IRA will all be released by June 2OOO,” added the Alliance Party President.
03 August 1998
Rice urges council to improve waste management programme
THE Alliance Party’s environment spokesperson has called on Castlereagh Borough Council to launch a “modern” waste management and recycling programme.
Councillor Geraldine Rice, who is the vice-chair of her council’s technical services committee, made the claim after receiving a flood of complaints about the lack of waste disposal facilities in the borough.
She said that, for Castlereagh to maintain its status as one of Northern Ireland’s premier boroughs, it was essential for the council to address the issue with the “utmost attention”.
“Pollution and waste are aspects of a global problem but they are very relevant to the borough of Castlereagh,” explained the Alliance councillor.
“We all know that the issue of pollution is a major problem in Northern Ireland but we must all do our best to keep our local areas clean.
“That’s why I have called on my local council to launch a modern waste disposal and recycling programme. We may have a large landfill site in the borough but it is clear that there is much room for improvement.
“I can’t understand why Castlereagh council, which claims to be a premier borough, has not introduced a sufficient waste management and recycling programme.
“But I think that part of this is down to the cost of introducing a comprehensive recycling and recovery programme.
“We all know that the government taxes on landfill sites will inevitably make them much more costly and we also know that the government are committed to reducing landfill sites.
“And I would also hope that my fellow councillors support my proposals to launch a new waste management and recycling programme,” added Mrs. Rice.
Councillor Geraldine Rice, who is the vice-chair of her council’s technical services committee, made the claim after receiving a flood of complaints about the lack of waste disposal facilities in the borough.
She said that, for Castlereagh to maintain its status as one of Northern Ireland’s premier boroughs, it was essential for the council to address the issue with the “utmost attention”.
“Pollution and waste are aspects of a global problem but they are very relevant to the borough of Castlereagh,” explained the Alliance councillor.
“We all know that the issue of pollution is a major problem in Northern Ireland but we must all do our best to keep our local areas clean.
“That’s why I have called on my local council to launch a modern waste disposal and recycling programme. We may have a large landfill site in the borough but it is clear that there is much room for improvement.
“I can’t understand why Castlereagh council, which claims to be a premier borough, has not introduced a sufficient waste management and recycling programme.
“But I think that part of this is down to the cost of introducing a comprehensive recycling and recovery programme.
“We all know that the government taxes on landfill sites will inevitably make them much more costly and we also know that the government are committed to reducing landfill sites.
“And I would also hope that my fellow councillors support my proposals to launch a new waste management and recycling programme,” added Mrs. Rice.
Bombers must not be allowed to succeed: Bell
A LEADING member of the Alliance Party has condemned whoever was responsible for last Saturday’s bomb blast in Banbridge.
And North Down assembly member Eileen Bell, who is the Alliance Party’s Chairperson, also urged politicians to realise that peace would not happen “overnight”.
Mrs. Bell said:
“I am appalled at the actions of the thugs who carried out this awful attack in Banbridge last Saturday. When will they realise that their actions serve no purpose at all?
“We must recognise that there are those who are determined to wreck the Good Friday agreement and the new assembly - but they must not be allowed to succeed.
“And now that we have a chance of working together - we must work even harder to ensure that the nightmare of the last 30 years does not happen again.
“We must all face with realism the task that we now have and we must vigorously oppose those who are determined to carry out such appalling acts of terrorism.
“The agreement and the assembly is the only chance that we have of moving forward and I would urge all politicians do everything in their power to persuade those who are committed to violence to pursue the path of peace and democracy.”
And North Down assembly member Eileen Bell, who is the Alliance Party’s Chairperson, also urged politicians to realise that peace would not happen “overnight”.
Mrs. Bell said:
“I am appalled at the actions of the thugs who carried out this awful attack in Banbridge last Saturday. When will they realise that their actions serve no purpose at all?
“We must recognise that there are those who are determined to wreck the Good Friday agreement and the new assembly - but they must not be allowed to succeed.
“And now that we have a chance of working together - we must work even harder to ensure that the nightmare of the last 30 years does not happen again.
“We must all face with realism the task that we now have and we must vigorously oppose those who are determined to carry out such appalling acts of terrorism.
“The agreement and the assembly is the only chance that we have of moving forward and I would urge all politicians do everything in their power to persuade those who are committed to violence to pursue the path of peace and democracy.”
31 July 1998
Bell urges Government to tackle "poverty in retirement" problem
A LEADING member of the Alliance Party has called on the Government to introduce measures to combat what, she says is, the “alarming increase” of women who live in poverty after retirement.
Councillor Eileen Bell, who is a North Down shadow assembly member, made the claim after an Equal Opportunities Commission report revealed that thousands of retired women across Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom were living in poverty.
The shadow assemblywoman, in welcoming the report, said it was now time for the government to introduce “significant” pension schemes for women working in low-paid and part-time jobs.
And Mrs. Bell, who is the Alliance Party’s spokesperson on women’s issues, said the government should also make moves to incorporate organisations such as the EOC into the equality commission of Northern Ireland.
“I welcome the report from the EOC and I hope it encourages the government to introduce measures to combat this terrible problem,” said the Alliance Party chairperson.
“It is disgraceful that women - just because they are in part-time or low paid jobs - cannot look forward to their retirement. There is no reason why they should be forced to live a life of poverty after working for so long.
“The report released by the EOC underlines the fact that there is an urgent need for the government to incorporate the policies of various equality organisations.
“Reports like the one released by the EOC are a constant reminder of the problems which women face in the latter stages of the 20th century and this must not be allowed to continue.
“I think that now is the time for the government to help retired women who are living in poverty. All women have a democratic right to look forward to their retirement,” added Mrs. Bell.
Councillor Eileen Bell, who is a North Down shadow assembly member, made the claim after an Equal Opportunities Commission report revealed that thousands of retired women across Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom were living in poverty.
The shadow assemblywoman, in welcoming the report, said it was now time for the government to introduce “significant” pension schemes for women working in low-paid and part-time jobs.
And Mrs. Bell, who is the Alliance Party’s spokesperson on women’s issues, said the government should also make moves to incorporate organisations such as the EOC into the equality commission of Northern Ireland.
“I welcome the report from the EOC and I hope it encourages the government to introduce measures to combat this terrible problem,” said the Alliance Party chairperson.
“It is disgraceful that women - just because they are in part-time or low paid jobs - cannot look forward to their retirement. There is no reason why they should be forced to live a life of poverty after working for so long.
“The report released by the EOC underlines the fact that there is an urgent need for the government to incorporate the policies of various equality organisations.
“Reports like the one released by the EOC are a constant reminder of the problems which women face in the latter stages of the 20th century and this must not be allowed to continue.
“I think that now is the time for the government to help retired women who are living in poverty. All women have a democratic right to look forward to their retirement,” added Mrs. Bell.
Dow hits out at Board's "Nazi" tactics
PLANS by the Eastern Health and Social Services Board to add fluoride to water supplies in Holywood has been described by a Belfast City councillor as a form of “nazism”.
And the Alliance Party’s Danny Dow has said that if the plans get the go-ahead, it will result in a process of “mass medication” for the people of Holywood.
A decision on the proposals will be made on August 11th after EHSSB chiefs meet to discuss the issue at their headquarters in Linenhall Street, Belfast.
But Mr. Dow, who has teamed up with leading members from the National Pure Water Association to highlight the “dangers” of fluoride, believes the plans will be approved.
The Alliance councillor wants the decision to be made by members of the new shadow assembly when it reconvenes in September.
He says the “undemocratic” nature of the board is evident by its decision to make an announcement on the proposal before the next assembly meeting.
“If this decision gets the go-ahead, it will be inflicted upon the people of Holywood who will ultimately have no say in the matter,” explained the Alliance man.
“The decision must be democratic and it must be taken by locally elected representatives - not by members of the board who don’t represent the people of Holywood.
“Even Lord Dubs has said that plans to add fluoride to water supplies should be taken by members of the new assembly.
“Research has shown us the dangers of fluoride in water supplies and I believe that the people of Holywood are also against the plans.
“We will be doing our best to oppose the plans and we will be picketing outside the board’s headquarters on August 11th. They must not be allowed to get away with this proposal and I would be calling on the people of Holywood to give us their full support,” he added.
And the Alliance Party’s Danny Dow has said that if the plans get the go-ahead, it will result in a process of “mass medication” for the people of Holywood.
A decision on the proposals will be made on August 11th after EHSSB chiefs meet to discuss the issue at their headquarters in Linenhall Street, Belfast.
But Mr. Dow, who has teamed up with leading members from the National Pure Water Association to highlight the “dangers” of fluoride, believes the plans will be approved.
The Alliance councillor wants the decision to be made by members of the new shadow assembly when it reconvenes in September.
He says the “undemocratic” nature of the board is evident by its decision to make an announcement on the proposal before the next assembly meeting.
“If this decision gets the go-ahead, it will be inflicted upon the people of Holywood who will ultimately have no say in the matter,” explained the Alliance man.
“The decision must be democratic and it must be taken by locally elected representatives - not by members of the board who don’t represent the people of Holywood.
“Even Lord Dubs has said that plans to add fluoride to water supplies should be taken by members of the new assembly.
“Research has shown us the dangers of fluoride in water supplies and I believe that the people of Holywood are also against the plans.
“We will be doing our best to oppose the plans and we will be picketing outside the board’s headquarters on August 11th. They must not be allowed to get away with this proposal and I would be calling on the people of Holywood to give us their full support,” he added.
28 July 1998
Close reflects on American visit
AS details of the US President’s second visit to Ireland emerged last week, the Deputy Leader of the Alliance Party was preparing to visit one of Mr. Clinton’s favourite states.
For Lisburn councillor Seamus Close, accompanied by fellow councillor Richard Good and South Down Alliance representative Dr. Anne-Marie Cunningham, jetted off to Boston’s Harvard University on July 18 to participate in a week long conference on conflict resolution.
The conference - entitled ‘The New Political Architecture: A Workshop for Leaders from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain’ - was organised by the John F. Kennedy School of Government and the Foundation for Civil Society.
And apart from the attendance of Mr. Close, the Lagan Valley constituency was also represented by Democratic Unionist Party councillor Edwin Poots and the Ulster Democratic Party’s Gary McMichael.
A wide range of issues associated with the conflict in Northern Ireland - which Mr. Close described as “extremely useful” - were discussed at length during a series of workshop sessions, lectures and seminars.
However, although the conference was in “no way” linked to the workings of the new shadow assembly, Mr. Close said it was good to see a “great level of enthusiasm” from the Northern Ireland politicians.
“I think that by moving our politicians away from the political cauldron of Northern Ireland - and into a different political environment - we have the opportunity to recognise each other as human beings,” explained the shadow assemblyman.
“Even though my visit to Harvard was not connected to the workings of the new assembly, it was still good to see so many of our politicians who, I believe, were genuinely interested in what the conference had to offer.
“We met with political activists from around the world and I believe we gained some valuable experiences that we can use in relation to our own situation.
“I was very pleased with the way things went at Harvard and I welcome any attempts to address the issue of conflict resolution in Northern Ireland,” he added.
For Lisburn councillor Seamus Close, accompanied by fellow councillor Richard Good and South Down Alliance representative Dr. Anne-Marie Cunningham, jetted off to Boston’s Harvard University on July 18 to participate in a week long conference on conflict resolution.
The conference - entitled ‘The New Political Architecture: A Workshop for Leaders from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain’ - was organised by the John F. Kennedy School of Government and the Foundation for Civil Society.
And apart from the attendance of Mr. Close, the Lagan Valley constituency was also represented by Democratic Unionist Party councillor Edwin Poots and the Ulster Democratic Party’s Gary McMichael.
A wide range of issues associated with the conflict in Northern Ireland - which Mr. Close described as “extremely useful” - were discussed at length during a series of workshop sessions, lectures and seminars.
However, although the conference was in “no way” linked to the workings of the new shadow assembly, Mr. Close said it was good to see a “great level of enthusiasm” from the Northern Ireland politicians.
“I think that by moving our politicians away from the political cauldron of Northern Ireland - and into a different political environment - we have the opportunity to recognise each other as human beings,” explained the shadow assemblyman.
“Even though my visit to Harvard was not connected to the workings of the new assembly, it was still good to see so many of our politicians who, I believe, were genuinely interested in what the conference had to offer.
“We met with political activists from around the world and I believe we gained some valuable experiences that we can use in relation to our own situation.
“I was very pleased with the way things went at Harvard and I welcome any attempts to address the issue of conflict resolution in Northern Ireland,” he added.
Orange Order has limited credibility: McGarry
A LEADING member of the Alliance Party has accused the Orange Order of having “limited credibility” after its refusal to talk to residents groups.
Dr. Philip McGarry - who is the President of the Alliance Party - made the claim after a statement released by the Orange Order confirmed its “unwillingness” to talk to residents groups.
The Alliance man said the Orange Order had “no legitimate reasons” for opposing direct talks with residents groups after its recent meetings with convicted killers during the Drumcree stand-off.
“The Orange Order gives the impression that it refuses to talk to local residents as a matter of fundamental principle,” said Dr. McGarry.
“But this argument has very little credibility as Orange leaders have already met with convicted killer Kenny McClinton and two years ago at Drumcree they were happy to talk with the late Billy Wright of the Loyalist Volunteer Force.
“The Orange Order’s position is further weakened by its persistent breach of law over the last few weeks in refusing to call upon its members to go home and accept the lawful decision of the Parades Commission.
“The fact that the protest at Drumcree was used a base for a gunman to shoot at the security forces, for a nail-bomber to cause injuries (to the great satisfaction of the crowd), and for other violent acts prevents any reasonable person from understanding the Order’s self proclaimed opposition to people because of alleged involvement in violence.
“Given recent events, there is no alternative and no reasons why the Orange Order cannot enter into direct contact with local residents groups who live along contentious parade routes,” added the former Belfast City councillor.
Dr. Philip McGarry - who is the President of the Alliance Party - made the claim after a statement released by the Orange Order confirmed its “unwillingness” to talk to residents groups.
The Alliance man said the Orange Order had “no legitimate reasons” for opposing direct talks with residents groups after its recent meetings with convicted killers during the Drumcree stand-off.
“The Orange Order gives the impression that it refuses to talk to local residents as a matter of fundamental principle,” said Dr. McGarry.
“But this argument has very little credibility as Orange leaders have already met with convicted killer Kenny McClinton and two years ago at Drumcree they were happy to talk with the late Billy Wright of the Loyalist Volunteer Force.
“The Orange Order’s position is further weakened by its persistent breach of law over the last few weeks in refusing to call upon its members to go home and accept the lawful decision of the Parades Commission.
“The fact that the protest at Drumcree was used a base for a gunman to shoot at the security forces, for a nail-bomber to cause injuries (to the great satisfaction of the crowd), and for other violent acts prevents any reasonable person from understanding the Order’s self proclaimed opposition to people because of alleged involvement in violence.
“Given recent events, there is no alternative and no reasons why the Orange Order cannot enter into direct contact with local residents groups who live along contentious parade routes,” added the former Belfast City councillor.
24 July 1998
"We must banish sectarianism and bigotry": Bell's plea to Northern Ireland
ONE of the Alliance Party’s longest serving councillors has called on parents and families to do all that they can to eradicate sectarianism in Northern Ireland.
And North Down shadow assembly member Eileen Bell - who is the Alliance Party’s chairperson - has also called on community, business and political leaders to follow in their footsteps.
The founder member of the Peace Train organisation and previous cross-community worker believes that the “first steps” in eradicating hatred and division can be taken in the home.
Mrs. Bell said that once the first steps had been taken to eradicating what, she claims is, “the principles of division” - other “influential groups” could then take over from the family.
“After the events of the last few weeks, it is clear that bigotry, sectarianism and hatred are still rife within Northern Ireland,” said the assemblywoman.
“That’s why everyone in this society must do all that they can to eradicate these evils from our society. It is clear that we all have a role to play in abolishing these terrible principles.
“By teaching children to have respect for all traditions at such an early age, we are giving them the chance to look at people as human beings and not just as Catholic or Protestant, Unionist or Nationalist.
“Most people would agree that the sentiments of hate, distrust and suspicion are formulated in the home.
“But all parents must do their best to instruct their children to have respect, tolerance and understanding for all sections of the community. Anything else, and the seeds of hate will continue to grow in this society,” said Mrs. Bell.
The Alliance councillor also urged parents and families to investigate the attempts made by their local business, community and political representatives to eradicate sectarianism.
And North Down shadow assembly member Eileen Bell - who is the Alliance Party’s chairperson - has also called on community, business and political leaders to follow in their footsteps.
The founder member of the Peace Train organisation and previous cross-community worker believes that the “first steps” in eradicating hatred and division can be taken in the home.
Mrs. Bell said that once the first steps had been taken to eradicating what, she claims is, “the principles of division” - other “influential groups” could then take over from the family.
“After the events of the last few weeks, it is clear that bigotry, sectarianism and hatred are still rife within Northern Ireland,” said the assemblywoman.
“That’s why everyone in this society must do all that they can to eradicate these evils from our society. It is clear that we all have a role to play in abolishing these terrible principles.
“By teaching children to have respect for all traditions at such an early age, we are giving them the chance to look at people as human beings and not just as Catholic or Protestant, Unionist or Nationalist.
“Most people would agree that the sentiments of hate, distrust and suspicion are formulated in the home.
“But all parents must do their best to instruct their children to have respect, tolerance and understanding for all sections of the community. Anything else, and the seeds of hate will continue to grow in this society,” said Mrs. Bell.
The Alliance councillor also urged parents and families to investigate the attempts made by their local business, community and political representatives to eradicate sectarianism.
21 July 1998
Mitchell praises DoE action
AFTER repairing damaged traffic lights at the junction of the Glen and Knock Road in East Belfast, the Department of the Environment has been signalled out for praise by a local councillor.
Councillor Patrick Mitchell, who is one of four Alliance Party councillors on Castlereagh Borough Council, described this week’s response by the DoE’s to the broken traffic lights as “swift” and “professional”.
It is understood that the traffic lights, which are situated at one of Belfast’s busiest junctions, were damaged during the violence which flared as a result of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown.
Mr. Mitchell claims that the traffic lights have been targeted during previous Drumcree related disturbances but added that DoE staff were unable to gain access to the junction as a result of road blockades.
“I would like to praise the DoE for its tremendous response to the damaged traffic lights. They were very efficient and I’m sure the motorists of the area want to thank them for getting the lights up an running again,” he said.
“This is not the first time that traffic lights have been damaged during disturbances related to Drumcree and it is a pity that those who cause the damage do not have to pay for the repairs.
“The lights were installed because of the difficulties experienced by motorists moving from the Glen Road on to the dual carriageway. Deprived of the help of these lights, motorists from the district could easily have been injured or killed.
“It is clear that those who cause the damage to the traffic lights never think of the potentially lethal consequences. It’s about time that these people had more respect for their areas. We must not have a repeat of this destruction in July 1999,” added Mr. Mitchell.
Councillor Patrick Mitchell, who is one of four Alliance Party councillors on Castlereagh Borough Council, described this week’s response by the DoE’s to the broken traffic lights as “swift” and “professional”.
It is understood that the traffic lights, which are situated at one of Belfast’s busiest junctions, were damaged during the violence which flared as a result of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown.
Mr. Mitchell claims that the traffic lights have been targeted during previous Drumcree related disturbances but added that DoE staff were unable to gain access to the junction as a result of road blockades.
“I would like to praise the DoE for its tremendous response to the damaged traffic lights. They were very efficient and I’m sure the motorists of the area want to thank them for getting the lights up an running again,” he said.
“This is not the first time that traffic lights have been damaged during disturbances related to Drumcree and it is a pity that those who cause the damage do not have to pay for the repairs.
“The lights were installed because of the difficulties experienced by motorists moving from the Glen Road on to the dual carriageway. Deprived of the help of these lights, motorists from the district could easily have been injured or killed.
“It is clear that those who cause the damage to the traffic lights never think of the potentially lethal consequences. It’s about time that these people had more respect for their areas. We must not have a repeat of this destruction in July 1999,” added Mr. Mitchell.
20 July 1998
Mitchell hits out at "bigoted" council
CASTLEREAGH Borough Council is “bigoted”, “backward” and “sectarian”, according to one of its own councillors.
The Alliance Party’s Patrick Mitchell made the claim after the appointments of the council’s six committee chairpersons were announced at a special meeting last Thursday.
Mr. Mitchell is furious that, unlike previous years at the council, there is no “proper” power sharing after the Democratic Unionist Party secured four and the Ulster Unionist Party two of the six committee posts.
The Castlereagh councillor, who wants to see “fair treatment” for minority parties, explained how the Alliance Party had always received one of the chairperson posts.
Mr. Mitchell is now calling on what, he says is, the “Unionist family” on Castlereagh council to allocate one of the six positions to another councillor from one of the smaller parties.
“For several years, in a system of power sharing, the Alliance Party has always held one of the chairperson positions on the council’s committees,” explained the Alliance man.
“But we must realise that there was a new factor in the equation. Due to recent pay rises for councillors, £7,500 is to be divided among the six chairpersons. It is clear that the DUP and UUP members were determined to get their hands on this money.
“When challenged, the DUP members made spurious remarks about the supposedly poor attendance of a former Alliance chairperson. How are we meant to move forward when we have Mereve Chambers attending meetings in her Orange regalia?
“Iris Robinson alleged that our chairperson attended just half of the required meetings. However, this was completely incorrect. For everyone in the council knows that our chairperson attended a perfectly satisfactory six out of ten meetings.
“We have been excluded from the positions of mayor, deputy mayor and on numerous advisory committees. DUP members like to refer to Castlereagh as the premier borough. In reality, it is more like a backward and bigoted borough,” said Councillor Mitchell.
The Alliance Party’s Patrick Mitchell made the claim after the appointments of the council’s six committee chairpersons were announced at a special meeting last Thursday.
Mr. Mitchell is furious that, unlike previous years at the council, there is no “proper” power sharing after the Democratic Unionist Party secured four and the Ulster Unionist Party two of the six committee posts.
The Castlereagh councillor, who wants to see “fair treatment” for minority parties, explained how the Alliance Party had always received one of the chairperson posts.
Mr. Mitchell is now calling on what, he says is, the “Unionist family” on Castlereagh council to allocate one of the six positions to another councillor from one of the smaller parties.
“For several years, in a system of power sharing, the Alliance Party has always held one of the chairperson positions on the council’s committees,” explained the Alliance man.
“But we must realise that there was a new factor in the equation. Due to recent pay rises for councillors, £7,500 is to be divided among the six chairpersons. It is clear that the DUP and UUP members were determined to get their hands on this money.
“When challenged, the DUP members made spurious remarks about the supposedly poor attendance of a former Alliance chairperson. How are we meant to move forward when we have Mereve Chambers attending meetings in her Orange regalia?
“Iris Robinson alleged that our chairperson attended just half of the required meetings. However, this was completely incorrect. For everyone in the council knows that our chairperson attended a perfectly satisfactory six out of ten meetings.
“We have been excluded from the positions of mayor, deputy mayor and on numerous advisory committees. DUP members like to refer to Castlereagh as the premier borough. In reality, it is more like a backward and bigoted borough,” said Councillor Mitchell.
17 July 1998
Ekin hits out at "orgy of destruction"
A LOCAL Councillor has hit out at whoever was responsible for the recent spate of violence which flared in the Donegall Pass and Sandy Row areas of South Belfast.
And the Alliance Party’s Tom Ekin, who is a councillor for the Balmoral area of South Belfast, has confirmed that he will be calling on Belfast City Council chiefs to launch a major clean-up operation of the two areas.
The Alliance Councillor also said that Belfast City Council must do “everything in its power” to enhance the image of both areas.
“The apparent celebrations of the Battle of the Somme in the Donegall Pass and Sandy Row areas of South Belfast in recent days can only be viewed with the utmost contempt,” said the Alliance Councillor.
“The thrashing of streets, the wrecking of roads and the destruction in both areas was completely unwarranted.
“Both areas have been destroyed and the negative image being portrayed around the world will undoubtedly have economic implications.
“That’s why I feel that the Council should make moves to address this problem immediately. It is essential that image of both areas is drastically improved.
“We must make sure that the re-generation of both areas is a priority with the Council
“I think a major clean-up operation is one way of addressing this problem and I believe that the residents of both areas would strongly support this plan. The good families of both areas must be allowed to live in peace,” added Mr. Ekin.
And the Alliance Party’s Tom Ekin, who is a councillor for the Balmoral area of South Belfast, has confirmed that he will be calling on Belfast City Council chiefs to launch a major clean-up operation of the two areas.
The Alliance Councillor also said that Belfast City Council must do “everything in its power” to enhance the image of both areas.
“The apparent celebrations of the Battle of the Somme in the Donegall Pass and Sandy Row areas of South Belfast in recent days can only be viewed with the utmost contempt,” said the Alliance Councillor.
“The thrashing of streets, the wrecking of roads and the destruction in both areas was completely unwarranted.
“Both areas have been destroyed and the negative image being portrayed around the world will undoubtedly have economic implications.
“That’s why I feel that the Council should make moves to address this problem immediately. It is essential that image of both areas is drastically improved.
“We must make sure that the re-generation of both areas is a priority with the Council
“I think a major clean-up operation is one way of addressing this problem and I believe that the residents of both areas would strongly support this plan. The good families of both areas must be allowed to live in peace,” added Mr. Ekin.
Dickson welcomes cash injection for health service
A SUFFICIENT amount of funds from the Government’s £1.4bn cash injection for Northern Ireland should be used to improve health and educational services in East Antrim, a leading member of the Alliance Party said today.
Alderman Stewart Dickson, who is the Alliance Party’s spokesman on health issues, made the call after Wednesday’s announcement of the government’s plans to upgrade Northern Ireland’s health and education sector.
It is understood that the bulk of the money will be targeted at education and health, but funds are also to be made available to improve roads and encourage overall economic growth.
The government hopes to improve the health service by ensuring that by the year 2002, death rates from heart disease and strokes is reduced by 40 per cent. In relation to schooling, the government aims to raise educational standards among primary and secondary school children.
And, in welcoming the proposals, Mr. Dickson said it was essential for the government to recognise that “important decisions” had to be made about the future of health and education in the East Antrim area.
“Any major cash injection for our schools and health service has to be welcomed, but we must make sure that the money is spent wisely,” said the former Mayor of Carrickfergus.
“The reality is that we have to keep our head above the water and we must do all that we can to ensure that some of the funding is allocated to hospitals, schools and health centres in the East Antrim area.
“For instance, I think that there is an urgent need for more staff in hospitals and health centres in the East Antrim area and this must be addressed with the utmost attention.
“I also think it is important for the Government to consult members of the new Assembly on the allocation of funding. It is clear that member of the Assembly will have an important role to play in education and health matters,” he said.
Alderman Stewart Dickson, who is the Alliance Party’s spokesman on health issues, made the call after Wednesday’s announcement of the government’s plans to upgrade Northern Ireland’s health and education sector.
It is understood that the bulk of the money will be targeted at education and health, but funds are also to be made available to improve roads and encourage overall economic growth.
The government hopes to improve the health service by ensuring that by the year 2002, death rates from heart disease and strokes is reduced by 40 per cent. In relation to schooling, the government aims to raise educational standards among primary and secondary school children.
And, in welcoming the proposals, Mr. Dickson said it was essential for the government to recognise that “important decisions” had to be made about the future of health and education in the East Antrim area.
“Any major cash injection for our schools and health service has to be welcomed, but we must make sure that the money is spent wisely,” said the former Mayor of Carrickfergus.
“The reality is that we have to keep our head above the water and we must do all that we can to ensure that some of the funding is allocated to hospitals, schools and health centres in the East Antrim area.
“For instance, I think that there is an urgent need for more staff in hospitals and health centres in the East Antrim area and this must be addressed with the utmost attention.
“I also think it is important for the Government to consult members of the new Assembly on the allocation of funding. It is clear that member of the Assembly will have an important role to play in education and health matters,” he said.
Organic sector needs proper support: Ford
THE Alliance Party’s South Antrim Shadow Assembly member, Mr. David Ford, has said that the organic farming sector on Northern Ireland clearly needs proper support.
Mr. Ford, who is the Alliance spokesperson for agricultural and rural development, echoed the concerns expressed by David Hawthorne of the Sustainable Agricultural Development Group when he said that it was clear that the Organic Aid Scheme in Northern Ireland was a failure.
The South Antrim assemblyman said:
“When I saw the answers to the Parliamentary Questions recently tabled by Lord Alderdice, I found them almost impossible to accept. Over £300,000 spent on organic agriculture by DANI, buy not a penny of that for ordinary farmers.
“The research activities of Greenmount have been closed down and there is no serious work being done in Northern Ireland in contrast to the situation in the Republic.
“On top of this, while there is increasing demand for organic produce, their area of organic production in Northern Ireland has decreased.”
“It is clearly the time for the Organic Aid Scheme to be scrapped and a worthwhile scheme to be introduced. DANI’s efforts must be directed to practical support for farmers, not isolated research projects with limited value on the ground.
“I believe that organic production is one of the niche markets which farmers in Northern Ireland need to exploit to develop their business. It is disgraceful that we have lost opportunities over the last decade.
“This is typical of the issues that the Assembly will have to take up in the future, to show that local agriculture can be among the best in Europe,” added Mr. Ford.
Mr. Ford, who is the Alliance spokesperson for agricultural and rural development, echoed the concerns expressed by David Hawthorne of the Sustainable Agricultural Development Group when he said that it was clear that the Organic Aid Scheme in Northern Ireland was a failure.
The South Antrim assemblyman said:
“When I saw the answers to the Parliamentary Questions recently tabled by Lord Alderdice, I found them almost impossible to accept. Over £300,000 spent on organic agriculture by DANI, buy not a penny of that for ordinary farmers.
“The research activities of Greenmount have been closed down and there is no serious work being done in Northern Ireland in contrast to the situation in the Republic.
“On top of this, while there is increasing demand for organic produce, their area of organic production in Northern Ireland has decreased.”
“It is clearly the time for the Organic Aid Scheme to be scrapped and a worthwhile scheme to be introduced. DANI’s efforts must be directed to practical support for farmers, not isolated research projects with limited value on the ground.
“I believe that organic production is one of the niche markets which farmers in Northern Ireland need to exploit to develop their business. It is disgraceful that we have lost opportunities over the last decade.
“This is typical of the issues that the Assembly will have to take up in the future, to show that local agriculture can be among the best in Europe,” added Mr. Ford.
16 July 1998
"Look to the future": Dickson's plea to Carrickfergus
EVEN though the image of Carrickfergus may have been damaged by the recent outbreak of violence which swept through Northern Ireland, a leading member of the Alliance Party has called on the people of the borough to “look to the future”.
Alderman Stewart Dickson - who stood as an East Antrim candidate in last month’s shadow Assembly election - said it was vital for the people of Carrick to remove the “dark spectre of sectarianism”.
And Mr. Dickson, a health spokesperson for the Alliance Party, has also described the intimidation and violence which flared in Carrickfergus as a form of “nazism” and “ethnic cleansing”.
The former Mayor of Carrickfergus is now calling on the people of the borough to “all they can” to improve the image of their area. He said that any hope of future investment and potential job creation in the borough lay “purely” with the people and local politicians.
But Mr. Dickson also pointed out that further outbreaks of violence would leave Carrickfergus “lagging behind” other towns in the province. He added that, with the new Assembly, it was now time for the people of Carrickfergus to move forward.
“The events which flared after the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown cast a long and dark shadow over the borough of Carrickfergus,” said the Alliance Councillor.
“Violence, mayhem, disorder and blatant sectarianism were all to evident in this borough in recent days. The intimidation which occurred in Carrickfergus can only be described as a sickening act of ethnic cleansing.
“Many Catholic families in the borough were intimidated, but many police officers in the town were also victimised by people who can only be described as thugs and animals.
“And at the height of the violence, what type of image was the borough portraying? An image where local hooligans had the authority to place young children at the burning barricades and road blockades. An image of sectarianism, hatred and bigotry.
“That’s why the recent levels of intimidation and attacks witnessed in Carrickfergus must not be allowed to happen again. We must fight against this hatred and we must do it together,” he said.
The Carrickfergus Councillor is also adamant that the people of the borough must do everything in their power to heal division and promote cross-community dialogue.
Mr. Dickson said: “We must not be allowed to forget about the victims of the past few weeks. They have suffered at the hands of evil and despicable thugs and we must all help them. It is clear that we must offer the hand of friendship.
“If we want to improve the image of our borough then we can start by showing the victims of intimidation that we care. It is essential that they don’t feel isolated at this moment. The thugs must not be allowed to win.”
And, in a further development, the Alliance Councillor has spoken of his contact with Americans who expressed concern about the situation in Northern Ireland and with Carrickfergus in particular.
“I have been inundated with calls from people in Carrick’s sister town in America. The people of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, were disgusted at the images on their television screens.
“They were genuinely concerned about the outbreaks of violence and intimidation, but what do I tell them now?
“Just before the referendum on May 22, American newspapers such as the New York Times painted a positive image of the town detailing its historical and cultural value to Northern Ireland.
“However, it is essential that we repair the image of this community. Carrick has great prospects and great potential. It must not be allowed to be destroyed by a small minority who are hell bent on causing death, destruction and mayhem,” said the Alliance man.
Alderman Stewart Dickson - who stood as an East Antrim candidate in last month’s shadow Assembly election - said it was vital for the people of Carrick to remove the “dark spectre of sectarianism”.
And Mr. Dickson, a health spokesperson for the Alliance Party, has also described the intimidation and violence which flared in Carrickfergus as a form of “nazism” and “ethnic cleansing”.
The former Mayor of Carrickfergus is now calling on the people of the borough to “all they can” to improve the image of their area. He said that any hope of future investment and potential job creation in the borough lay “purely” with the people and local politicians.
But Mr. Dickson also pointed out that further outbreaks of violence would leave Carrickfergus “lagging behind” other towns in the province. He added that, with the new Assembly, it was now time for the people of Carrickfergus to move forward.
“The events which flared after the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown cast a long and dark shadow over the borough of Carrickfergus,” said the Alliance Councillor.
“Violence, mayhem, disorder and blatant sectarianism were all to evident in this borough in recent days. The intimidation which occurred in Carrickfergus can only be described as a sickening act of ethnic cleansing.
“Many Catholic families in the borough were intimidated, but many police officers in the town were also victimised by people who can only be described as thugs and animals.
“And at the height of the violence, what type of image was the borough portraying? An image where local hooligans had the authority to place young children at the burning barricades and road blockades. An image of sectarianism, hatred and bigotry.
“That’s why the recent levels of intimidation and attacks witnessed in Carrickfergus must not be allowed to happen again. We must fight against this hatred and we must do it together,” he said.
The Carrickfergus Councillor is also adamant that the people of the borough must do everything in their power to heal division and promote cross-community dialogue.
Mr. Dickson said: “We must not be allowed to forget about the victims of the past few weeks. They have suffered at the hands of evil and despicable thugs and we must all help them. It is clear that we must offer the hand of friendship.
“If we want to improve the image of our borough then we can start by showing the victims of intimidation that we care. It is essential that they don’t feel isolated at this moment. The thugs must not be allowed to win.”
And, in a further development, the Alliance Councillor has spoken of his contact with Americans who expressed concern about the situation in Northern Ireland and with Carrickfergus in particular.
“I have been inundated with calls from people in Carrick’s sister town in America. The people of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, were disgusted at the images on their television screens.
“They were genuinely concerned about the outbreaks of violence and intimidation, but what do I tell them now?
“Just before the referendum on May 22, American newspapers such as the New York Times painted a positive image of the town detailing its historical and cultural value to Northern Ireland.
“However, it is essential that we repair the image of this community. Carrick has great prospects and great potential. It must not be allowed to be destroyed by a small minority who are hell bent on causing death, destruction and mayhem,” said the Alliance man.
Ford hits out at delay in railway decision
THE Alliance Party’s acting Chief Whip has called on Northern Ireland Railways to release its decision on the reinstatement of the Antrim to Whiteabbey railway line.
Councillor David Ford, who is a shadow Assembly member for South Antrim, said the NIR decision on the Bleach-Green line was “long overdue”.
However, the Alliance Party’s former General Secretary believes that NIR will not proceed with the new scheme until early next year.
The call from Mr. Ford comes after the Government’s recent announcement of a major cash injection for public transport in Northern Ireland.
“The Bleach Green line is a vital part of the railway system in Northern Ireland. It is essential to speeding journey times from stations north of antrim into Belfast,” he said.
“But the railway line is also needed to provide commuter services from areas like Templepatrick as well as to relieve the increasing traffic congestion in a place like Whiteabbey.
“If NIR don’t proceed with the Bleach Green line, then the full benefits of all other recent developments at Central Station and the cross harbour link will not be realised. I think it would also make an a mockery of the government’s claim to support our public transport system.
“I understand that Translink prepared a detailed business plan showing the value of this investment, but the DoE has refused to proceed with the scheme.
“The people of North Belfast, Whiteabbey and Antrim are being denied the rail link solely because of the Chancellors’ economic policy.
“I received great support from people who are determined to see the Bleach-Green line open again and I would call on NIR and the government to address this problem immediately,” he said.
The shadow Assemblyman, who has consistently called for the re-opening of the line, also said that he will be seeking a meeting with NIR chiefs to discuss the issue.
Councillor David Ford, who is a shadow Assembly member for South Antrim, said the NIR decision on the Bleach-Green line was “long overdue”.
However, the Alliance Party’s former General Secretary believes that NIR will not proceed with the new scheme until early next year.
The call from Mr. Ford comes after the Government’s recent announcement of a major cash injection for public transport in Northern Ireland.
“The Bleach Green line is a vital part of the railway system in Northern Ireland. It is essential to speeding journey times from stations north of antrim into Belfast,” he said.
“But the railway line is also needed to provide commuter services from areas like Templepatrick as well as to relieve the increasing traffic congestion in a place like Whiteabbey.
“If NIR don’t proceed with the Bleach Green line, then the full benefits of all other recent developments at Central Station and the cross harbour link will not be realised. I think it would also make an a mockery of the government’s claim to support our public transport system.
“I understand that Translink prepared a detailed business plan showing the value of this investment, but the DoE has refused to proceed with the scheme.
“The people of North Belfast, Whiteabbey and Antrim are being denied the rail link solely because of the Chancellors’ economic policy.
“I received great support from people who are determined to see the Bleach-Green line open again and I would call on NIR and the government to address this problem immediately,” he said.
The shadow Assemblyman, who has consistently called for the re-opening of the line, also said that he will be seeking a meeting with NIR chiefs to discuss the issue.
15 July 1998
Mitchell calls for end to Drumcree protest
A LOCAL Councillor has called on the people of East Belfast to end their protests in support of the Orangemen at Drumcree.
Alliance Councillor Patrick Mitchell - who is a member of Castlereagh Borough Council - issued the plea after expressing concern at the “terrible” July holidays.
The Castlereagh Councillor said:
“The recent July holidays must never again turn out like this. We have had roads blocked, flaming barricades, buses stolen and people driven from their homes.
“The people of East Belfast have a right to protest but many people in this area have been intimidated.
“I think it is time for us to end the senseless damage we have inflicted upon ourselves and the people of this area must also express their outrage at last weekend’s horrific murders in Ballymoney.”
The Castlereagh Councillor, speaking as the Drumcree stand-off entered its tenth day, also said that thousands of pounds worth of damage had been caused to premises in East Belfast.
“We had the burning of the car showroom at the Beersbridge Road and homeless people evicted from the hostel in the Newtownards Road last week.
“Many livelihoods have been destroyed but I would like to thank the police who have thwarted the efforts of organised terrorists on different occasions. It is clear that we owe them a great deal.
“After the triple murder last weekend, it is now time for the rule of law to prevail. We must give deep thought to how we can drive out hatred, bigotry and savagery from our society. It is clear that only way forward is through dialogue,” he said.
Alliance Councillor Patrick Mitchell - who is a member of Castlereagh Borough Council - issued the plea after expressing concern at the “terrible” July holidays.
The Castlereagh Councillor said:
“The recent July holidays must never again turn out like this. We have had roads blocked, flaming barricades, buses stolen and people driven from their homes.
“The people of East Belfast have a right to protest but many people in this area have been intimidated.
“I think it is time for us to end the senseless damage we have inflicted upon ourselves and the people of this area must also express their outrage at last weekend’s horrific murders in Ballymoney.”
The Castlereagh Councillor, speaking as the Drumcree stand-off entered its tenth day, also said that thousands of pounds worth of damage had been caused to premises in East Belfast.
“We had the burning of the car showroom at the Beersbridge Road and homeless people evicted from the hostel in the Newtownards Road last week.
“Many livelihoods have been destroyed but I would like to thank the police who have thwarted the efforts of organised terrorists on different occasions. It is clear that we owe them a great deal.
“After the triple murder last weekend, it is now time for the rule of law to prevail. We must give deep thought to how we can drive out hatred, bigotry and savagery from our society. It is clear that only way forward is through dialogue,” he said.
Dunlop calls for end to bigotry and hatred in North Antrim
AN IMPASSIONED plea for the people of North Antrim to distance themselves from sectarianism and hatred has been issued by the local Alliance Party representative.
Councillor Jayne Dunlop - who was speaking after yesterday’s triple funeral of the Quinn brothers in Ballymoney - said now was the time for the people of North Antrim to eradicate “sectarian attitudes”.
She said that by working together and moving forward, the people of North Antrim and Ballymoney would help pay tribute to the lives of three young brothers.
And the Alliance Councillor has also urged Orangemen from North Antrim to call for end to the stand-off at Drumcree.
“I watched the mourners on Tuesday at the funerals of the young Quinn brothers and it was clear for all to see that Ballymoney was eerily quiet as the mourners passed by. The only noise being that of footsteps and the tolling of the Chapel bell,” said Ms. Dunlop.
“It was a heartbreaking sight to see the hearse pass by with three white coffins inside. I felt it was such a pathetic waste of young life and that this needless loss of life spoke volumes about the kind of society in which we live,” she said.
“That’s why I feel that it’s about the time the protest at Drumcree ended. A number of people feel that the deaths are not the responsibility of the Orange Order. But surely it is the stand-off that created the unsettled atmosphere in which the firebombing of the Quinn home took place.
“The only people who are truly to blame are those who carried out the attack, but in a sense we are all to blame if we continue to harbour sectarian attitudes and I would urge the people of North Antrim to distance themselves from such attitudes.
“I know that this will not be easy but those who are involved in the disputes need to try. We must hope that no other family suffers like the Quinn family,” added the Ballymena Councillor.
Councillor Jayne Dunlop - who was speaking after yesterday’s triple funeral of the Quinn brothers in Ballymoney - said now was the time for the people of North Antrim to eradicate “sectarian attitudes”.
She said that by working together and moving forward, the people of North Antrim and Ballymoney would help pay tribute to the lives of three young brothers.
And the Alliance Councillor has also urged Orangemen from North Antrim to call for end to the stand-off at Drumcree.
“I watched the mourners on Tuesday at the funerals of the young Quinn brothers and it was clear for all to see that Ballymoney was eerily quiet as the mourners passed by. The only noise being that of footsteps and the tolling of the Chapel bell,” said Ms. Dunlop.
“It was a heartbreaking sight to see the hearse pass by with three white coffins inside. I felt it was such a pathetic waste of young life and that this needless loss of life spoke volumes about the kind of society in which we live,” she said.
“That’s why I feel that it’s about the time the protest at Drumcree ended. A number of people feel that the deaths are not the responsibility of the Orange Order. But surely it is the stand-off that created the unsettled atmosphere in which the firebombing of the Quinn home took place.
“The only people who are truly to blame are those who carried out the attack, but in a sense we are all to blame if we continue to harbour sectarian attitudes and I would urge the people of North Antrim to distance themselves from such attitudes.
“I know that this will not be easy but those who are involved in the disputes need to try. We must hope that no other family suffers like the Quinn family,” added the Ballymena Councillor.
10 July 1998
Neeson welcomes inquiry into rail accidents
THE Alliance Party’s Assembly Team leader has welcomed the Government’s decision to launch an inquiry into recent railway accidents.
But Mr. Sean Neeson, who is a shadow Assembly member for East Antrim, said the announcement from Environment Minister Lord Dubs was “long overdue”.
Lord Dubs has appointed Mr. Christopher Hall, a principal inspector of railways, to review the conduct of the outcome of the NIR inquiries into the three recent railway accidents in Northern Ireland.
Mr. Neeson is hopeful that the inquiry will address what, he claims is, the current safety aspect of all trains belonging to NIR.
And the Carrickfergus Councillor, who was appointed as acting leader of the Alliance Party after last month’s Assembly election, has also confirmed that his request for a meeting with the Environment Minster still stands.
“I am pleased that Lord Dubs has taken steps with what is a very serious and very sensitive issue. The people of Northern Ireland must have confidence in their public transport service,” said Mr. Neeson.
“I have been very active in trying to bring this matter to the public notice and I will continue to monitor the situation.
“I have already requested a meeting with Lord Dubs and I will be seeking a meeting with the management of Translink. I would like to inform Translink and Lord Dubs about the serious level of under-funding of the rail network in Northern Ireland.
“It is clear that most of the trains - apart from enterprise express - are all obsolete and there is an urgent need to invest in new rolling stock.
“Furthermore, the rail track throughout much of Northern Ireland needs upgrading and the dithering of the Bleach Green loop must come to an end,” added the acting Alliance Party leader.
But Mr. Sean Neeson, who is a shadow Assembly member for East Antrim, said the announcement from Environment Minister Lord Dubs was “long overdue”.
Lord Dubs has appointed Mr. Christopher Hall, a principal inspector of railways, to review the conduct of the outcome of the NIR inquiries into the three recent railway accidents in Northern Ireland.
Mr. Neeson is hopeful that the inquiry will address what, he claims is, the current safety aspect of all trains belonging to NIR.
And the Carrickfergus Councillor, who was appointed as acting leader of the Alliance Party after last month’s Assembly election, has also confirmed that his request for a meeting with the Environment Minster still stands.
“I am pleased that Lord Dubs has taken steps with what is a very serious and very sensitive issue. The people of Northern Ireland must have confidence in their public transport service,” said Mr. Neeson.
“I have been very active in trying to bring this matter to the public notice and I will continue to monitor the situation.
“I have already requested a meeting with Lord Dubs and I will be seeking a meeting with the management of Translink. I would like to inform Translink and Lord Dubs about the serious level of under-funding of the rail network in Northern Ireland.
“It is clear that most of the trains - apart from enterprise express - are all obsolete and there is an urgent need to invest in new rolling stock.
“Furthermore, the rail track throughout much of Northern Ireland needs upgrading and the dithering of the Bleach Green loop must come to an end,” added the acting Alliance Party leader.
Local Protestant community must support Catholic communities: McGarry
FOLLOWING last night’s outbreak of violence in the small County Down fishing village of Kilkeel, a senior member of the Alliance Party has urged the local Protestant community to “fully support” their Catholic neighbours.
And Dr. Philip McGarry, who is the Alliance Party President, said it was imperative that members of the local Protestant clergy show “total solidarity” with the village’s small Catholic community.
The Alliance man also urged members of the Protestant clergy to do “everything in their power” to prevent further outbreaks of sectarian violence.
“Catholic communities in towns like Kilkeel and Carrickfergus at the present time feel isolated and threatened,” said the former Belfast City Councillor.
“They are aware that the security forces have been unable to maintain their rule of law and they have grave fears about will happen over the coming weekend.
“I would also like to say that the Alliance Party welcomes recent contributions made by the main Church leaders. However, it is essential that local Protestant clergy are also active.
“I would further ask the local Protestant clergy in areas where there has been violence and intimidation against Roman Catholics, to show support for their neighbours in a direct and practical fashion,” he added.
Dr. McGarry also urged members of the local Protestant clergy to “actively seek” to ensure that there is no repetition of the violence which, he claims is, “spiralling out of control”.
And Dr. Philip McGarry, who is the Alliance Party President, said it was imperative that members of the local Protestant clergy show “total solidarity” with the village’s small Catholic community.
The Alliance man also urged members of the Protestant clergy to do “everything in their power” to prevent further outbreaks of sectarian violence.
“Catholic communities in towns like Kilkeel and Carrickfergus at the present time feel isolated and threatened,” said the former Belfast City Councillor.
“They are aware that the security forces have been unable to maintain their rule of law and they have grave fears about will happen over the coming weekend.
“I would also like to say that the Alliance Party welcomes recent contributions made by the main Church leaders. However, it is essential that local Protestant clergy are also active.
“I would further ask the local Protestant clergy in areas where there has been violence and intimidation against Roman Catholics, to show support for their neighbours in a direct and practical fashion,” he added.
Dr. McGarry also urged members of the local Protestant clergy to “actively seek” to ensure that there is no repetition of the violence which, he claims is, “spiralling out of control”.
Alliance call for end to all Drumcree protests
WITH tension mounting across Northern Ireland, a leading member of the Alliance Party has called on for an end to all illegal protests and road blockades.
And Dr. Philip McGarry, who is the President of the Alliance Party, has also called on community do “what they can” to prevent further street disturbances and illegal protests.
The former Belfast City Councillor further called for an end to what, he says is, the “blatant intimidation” of families across Northern Ireland.
“Events on the streets and around Drumcree have been gradually spiralling out of control over the last few days,” explained Dr. McGarry.
“Those who have called for people to come out in support of the Orangemen bear a major responsibility for the widespread violence and intimidation which has taken place.
“I would wish to strongly echo the sentiments of the Presbyterian moderator who has urged people to accept decision of Parades Commission and obey the rule of law.
“At this time of great tension and fear throughout the whole community, I would urge all responsible leaders to call upon all public protests and demonstrations to end. I would also urge the people who have been involved in the protests to return to their homes,” he said.
And Dr. Philip McGarry, who is the President of the Alliance Party, has also called on community do “what they can” to prevent further street disturbances and illegal protests.
The former Belfast City Councillor further called for an end to what, he says is, the “blatant intimidation” of families across Northern Ireland.
“Events on the streets and around Drumcree have been gradually spiralling out of control over the last few days,” explained Dr. McGarry.
“Those who have called for people to come out in support of the Orangemen bear a major responsibility for the widespread violence and intimidation which has taken place.
“I would wish to strongly echo the sentiments of the Presbyterian moderator who has urged people to accept decision of Parades Commission and obey the rule of law.
“At this time of great tension and fear throughout the whole community, I would urge all responsible leaders to call upon all public protests and demonstrations to end. I would also urge the people who have been involved in the protests to return to their homes,” he said.
Rice welcomes news of public transport cash injection
THE Alliance Party’s transport spokesperson has welcomed the Government’s decision to provide a £20m investment package for Northern Ireland’s public transport sector.
And Castlereagh Councillor Geraldine Rice - who is also the Alliance Party’s Environment spokesperson - has hit out at those who have attacked yesterday’s announcement from Lord Dubs.
Mrs. Rice said it was “essential” that those creating trouble in the wake of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown should not be allowed to determine the implementation of funding for public transport.
The Castlereagh Councillor also said that £20 million investment package for Ulsterbus and Citybus was long “overdue”.
Mrs. Rice said:
“The announcement from Lord Dubs should be welcomed from all quarters and I don’t see why the continuing spate of hijackings and cancelled services should have any bearing on the announcement.
“I have consistently called for an urgent review of the public transport system in Northern Ireland and the delivery of 138 new buses has to be commended.
“We need more people to use the public transport service as the number of people with cars is rising at an alarming rate.
“I am glad that this decision has been announced and I think it will help bring our public transport service into line with other services in the United Kingdom.”
And Castlereagh Councillor Geraldine Rice - who is also the Alliance Party’s Environment spokesperson - has hit out at those who have attacked yesterday’s announcement from Lord Dubs.
Mrs. Rice said it was “essential” that those creating trouble in the wake of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown should not be allowed to determine the implementation of funding for public transport.
The Castlereagh Councillor also said that £20 million investment package for Ulsterbus and Citybus was long “overdue”.
Mrs. Rice said:
“The announcement from Lord Dubs should be welcomed from all quarters and I don’t see why the continuing spate of hijackings and cancelled services should have any bearing on the announcement.
“I have consistently called for an urgent review of the public transport system in Northern Ireland and the delivery of 138 new buses has to be commended.
“We need more people to use the public transport service as the number of people with cars is rising at an alarming rate.
“I am glad that this decision has been announced and I think it will help bring our public transport service into line with other services in the United Kingdom.”
Rice welcomes news of public transport cash injection
THE Alliance Party’s transport spokesperson has welcomed the Government’s decision to provide a £20m investment package for Northern Ireland’s public transport sector.
And Castlereagh Councillor Geraldine Rice - who is also the Alliance Party’s Environment spokesperson - has hit out at those who have attacked yesterday’s announcement from Lord Dubs.
Mrs. Rice said it was “essential” that those creating trouble in the wake of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown should not be allowed to determine the implementation of funding for public transport.
The Castlereagh Councillor also said that £20 million investment package for Ulsterbus and Citybus was long “overdue”.
Mrs. Rice said:
“The announcement from Lord Dubs should be welcomed from all quarters and I don’t see why the continuing spate of hijackings and cancelled services should have any bearing on the announcement.
“I have consistently called for an urgent review of the public transport system in Northern Ireland and the delivery of 138 new buses has to be commended.
“We need more people to use the public transport service as the number of people with cars is rising at an alarming rate.
“I am glad that this decision has been announced and I think it will help bring our public transport service into line with other services in the United Kingdom.”
And Castlereagh Councillor Geraldine Rice - who is also the Alliance Party’s Environment spokesperson - has hit out at those who have attacked yesterday’s announcement from Lord Dubs.
Mrs. Rice said it was “essential” that those creating trouble in the wake of the Drumcree stand-off in Portadown should not be allowed to determine the implementation of funding for public transport.
The Castlereagh Councillor also said that £20 million investment package for Ulsterbus and Citybus was long “overdue”.
Mrs. Rice said:
“The announcement from Lord Dubs should be welcomed from all quarters and I don’t see why the continuing spate of hijackings and cancelled services should have any bearing on the announcement.
“I have consistently called for an urgent review of the public transport system in Northern Ireland and the delivery of 138 new buses has to be commended.
“We need more people to use the public transport service as the number of people with cars is rising at an alarming rate.
“I am glad that this decision has been announced and I think it will help bring our public transport service into line with other services in the United Kingdom.”
04 July 1998
Government must prove that no one is above or beyond the law: Alliance
With the failure to reach any agreement over the Drumcree Orange Order march, Alliance Assembly Member David Ford has stressed the need for the Rule of law to be observed and upheld.
David Ford said:
“Yet gain, a refusal to accept a realistic and honourable compromise on either side has led to a stand-off at Drumcree. Both sides must accept responsibility for this, and both sides must now do all in their power to discourage any lawlessness, in Portadown or elsewhere in Northern Ireland.
“It has been said that this march is an acid test for nationalists. I believe it is an acid test for the fair and impartial maintenance of law and order in Northern Ireland. For too long the issue of Drumcree has been decided on the basis of which side can threaten the greater violence. This year the decision has been taken, under the law, to block the march from the Garvaghy Road. That decision must now be upheld. Government must ensure that the police are given all the support they need to prove that no section of the Northern Ireland community is above or beyond the law.”
David Ford said:
“Yet gain, a refusal to accept a realistic and honourable compromise on either side has led to a stand-off at Drumcree. Both sides must accept responsibility for this, and both sides must now do all in their power to discourage any lawlessness, in Portadown or elsewhere in Northern Ireland.
“It has been said that this march is an acid test for nationalists. I believe it is an acid test for the fair and impartial maintenance of law and order in Northern Ireland. For too long the issue of Drumcree has been decided on the basis of which side can threaten the greater violence. This year the decision has been taken, under the law, to block the march from the Garvaghy Road. That decision must now be upheld. Government must ensure that the police are given all the support they need to prove that no section of the Northern Ireland community is above or beyond the law.”
01 June 1998
Alliance wins six seats in new Northern Ireland Assembly
THE six seats that the Alliance Party won in June’s Assembly election have created a significant ‘centre’ grouping the new body between Unionism and Nationalism.
This group has an enormous contribution to make in trying to hold the Agreement together, and taking up the challenge of building a more liberal and non-sectarian Northern Ireland.
The elections were however somewhat disappointing for Alliance. They demonstrated the ‘swings and arrows’ of STV.
Only a few hundred votes either way could have produce anything from 5 to 9 seats. Eight or nine seats would have guaranteed an Alliance seat in the new power sharing Executive.
Alliance polled 6.5 per cent of the vote, similar to our level of support in the 1996 elections that led to the Talks.
Then people voted for their own ‘side’ to fight their corner in the Talks; sadly it seems that voters still believe that it is possible to make things work by bolstering their own tribe to represent their interests.
The results show the enormity of the task of creating a realignment in politics. That task will now fall to the Alliance Party under a new leader.
Lord Alderdice, having led the Party for eleven years, has decided to step down. Since doing so, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mo Mowlam, has appointed him to act as the Presiding Officer of the new Northern Ireland Assembly.
Sean Neeson, former Chief Whip of the party and spokesman on European issues has been elected to serve as interim leader of the party until a full leadership election is held in September.
This group has an enormous contribution to make in trying to hold the Agreement together, and taking up the challenge of building a more liberal and non-sectarian Northern Ireland.
The elections were however somewhat disappointing for Alliance. They demonstrated the ‘swings and arrows’ of STV.
Only a few hundred votes either way could have produce anything from 5 to 9 seats. Eight or nine seats would have guaranteed an Alliance seat in the new power sharing Executive.
Alliance polled 6.5 per cent of the vote, similar to our level of support in the 1996 elections that led to the Talks.
Then people voted for their own ‘side’ to fight their corner in the Talks; sadly it seems that voters still believe that it is possible to make things work by bolstering their own tribe to represent their interests.
The results show the enormity of the task of creating a realignment in politics. That task will now fall to the Alliance Party under a new leader.
Lord Alderdice, having led the Party for eleven years, has decided to step down. Since doing so, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mo Mowlam, has appointed him to act as the Presiding Officer of the new Northern Ireland Assembly.
Sean Neeson, former Chief Whip of the party and spokesman on European issues has been elected to serve as interim leader of the party until a full leadership election is held in September.
14 May 1998
"Turn out in force and support the Agreement": Bell
THE Alliance Party’s Chairperson has issued an impassioned plea to the people of North Down urging them to turn out in force - and vote ‘Yes’ in next Friday’s referendum.
Speaking to North Down Alliance Association members last night, Councillor Eileen Bell said it was “imperative” that a resounding ‘Yes’ vote be recorded on May 22.
Councillor Bell, who is an Alliance Party Constituency Representative for North Down, also insisted that any new assembly in Northern Ireland would have to respect “all traditions”.
The former Stormont Talks Delegate and Northern Ireland Forum member warned against the idea of a Nationalist and Unionist assembly. She said that any assembly would have to include representatives from all political perspectives.
“Over the past few weeks I have listened to certain politicians labelling the Mitchell accord as an accommodation between the ideologies of Nationalism and Unionism. However, this is completely untrue - it is an accommodation between all political perspectives,” she said.
Mrs. Bell added: “Any assembly in Northern Ireland will not work without the support of politicians who don’t consider themselves to be Nationalist or Unionist. It is important that all traditions are equally represented.
“If the agreement is endorsed by the community, then we will do our best to make sure that the government of Northern Ireland is accountable, democratic and representative. We must not have a return to the old system of Stormont.
“The agreement reached on Good Friday presents us with a unique opportunity to move forward. It is not a perfect agreement, but we must realise that there is no alternative.
“And even if some of the people don’t agree with the package, they still have time to change their minds and vote ‘Yes’. It can lead us to a better future and it can give us greater control over our own community.”
Speaking to North Down Alliance Association members last night, Councillor Eileen Bell said it was “imperative” that a resounding ‘Yes’ vote be recorded on May 22.
Councillor Bell, who is an Alliance Party Constituency Representative for North Down, also insisted that any new assembly in Northern Ireland would have to respect “all traditions”.
The former Stormont Talks Delegate and Northern Ireland Forum member warned against the idea of a Nationalist and Unionist assembly. She said that any assembly would have to include representatives from all political perspectives.
“Over the past few weeks I have listened to certain politicians labelling the Mitchell accord as an accommodation between the ideologies of Nationalism and Unionism. However, this is completely untrue - it is an accommodation between all political perspectives,” she said.
Mrs. Bell added: “Any assembly in Northern Ireland will not work without the support of politicians who don’t consider themselves to be Nationalist or Unionist. It is important that all traditions are equally represented.
“If the agreement is endorsed by the community, then we will do our best to make sure that the government of Northern Ireland is accountable, democratic and representative. We must not have a return to the old system of Stormont.
“The agreement reached on Good Friday presents us with a unique opportunity to move forward. It is not a perfect agreement, but we must realise that there is no alternative.
“And even if some of the people don’t agree with the package, they still have time to change their minds and vote ‘Yes’. It can lead us to a better future and it can give us greater control over our own community.”
12 May 1998
Bell praises women's conference
Attempts made by the National Women’s Commission to get more women into politics have been welcomed by the Alliance Party Chairperson and North Down Councillor Eileen Bell who was speaking at the Commissions Conference last weekend.
Cllr Bell said:
“It was important for the women of Northern Ireland to work together.
“I think that last weekends Conference was a good occasion and very informative to all women who want to become involved in a wide range of activities.
“It shows that women from a wide range of political parties have a networking system that can help them in the world of politics.
“Organisers of the Conference have to be commended for their efforts in bringing women together. Women have an active role to play in politics and I think people are beginning to realise this.
“Women who have been in representative Politics for many years appreciate the deficiencies in our Political System but would still say that we do better by participation in the Political Arena than standing outside complaining. We must adopt a strategy for change and improvement that it will include both male and female politicians so that the old bugbears of competition and distrust are less likely to hinder that improvement.
“If this Assembly is going to work effectively for all the people of Northern Ireland it is essential that it will be made up in clear terms of representation and diversity. We must work together in the common aim of a better Northern Ireland for everyone not just on our own personal agenda.”
The Alliance Party Chairperson has described last weekends Women’s Commission Conference as a “great boost”.
Cllr Bell said:
“It was important for the women of Northern Ireland to work together.
“I think that last weekends Conference was a good occasion and very informative to all women who want to become involved in a wide range of activities.
“It shows that women from a wide range of political parties have a networking system that can help them in the world of politics.
“Organisers of the Conference have to be commended for their efforts in bringing women together. Women have an active role to play in politics and I think people are beginning to realise this.
“Women who have been in representative Politics for many years appreciate the deficiencies in our Political System but would still say that we do better by participation in the Political Arena than standing outside complaining. We must adopt a strategy for change and improvement that it will include both male and female politicians so that the old bugbears of competition and distrust are less likely to hinder that improvement.
“If this Assembly is going to work effectively for all the people of Northern Ireland it is essential that it will be made up in clear terms of representation and diversity. We must work together in the common aim of a better Northern Ireland for everyone not just on our own personal agenda.”
The Alliance Party Chairperson has described last weekends Women’s Commission Conference as a “great boost”.
02 May 1998
Alliance Council endorses Agreement at special meeting
The Alliance Party Council - the policy decision making body of the Party - today gave a formal endorsement to the Good Friday Agreement. The Council met at Carrickfergus today for a specially organised discussion on the Agreement. Speaking at the meeting, Alliance Party Chair, Cllr Eileen Bell, welcomed the endorsement of the deal, and hit back at claims by the ‘No’ Campaign that the ‘Yes’ campaign has been badly organised.
Cllr Bell said:
“The Party Council had an excellent and very positive discussion of the Agreement, and as the Party’s Talks Team we were delighted with the endorsement they gave to what had been achieved at Stormont. The Party has committed itself to working for a huge ‘Yes’ vote in the Referendum, and to building on the foundation that we will then have for the creation of a new future for Northern Ireland.
“It is amusing to hear the No Campaigners trying to criticise the ‘Yes’ Campaigners for being disorganised - now that they are losing the argument over the Agreement, they are reduced to arguing over who has the better campaign! We did not have the luxury of sitting on the sidelines for months and months as the DUP and the UKUP had. The parties who forged the Agreement were busy directing our time and energies towards moving Northern Ireland forward, not dragging it backwards. But having done so, we now have an Agreement which the overwhelming majority of people can and will support.”
Cllr Bell said:
“The Party Council had an excellent and very positive discussion of the Agreement, and as the Party’s Talks Team we were delighted with the endorsement they gave to what had been achieved at Stormont. The Party has committed itself to working for a huge ‘Yes’ vote in the Referendum, and to building on the foundation that we will then have for the creation of a new future for Northern Ireland.
“It is amusing to hear the No Campaigners trying to criticise the ‘Yes’ Campaigners for being disorganised - now that they are losing the argument over the Agreement, they are reduced to arguing over who has the better campaign! We did not have the luxury of sitting on the sidelines for months and months as the DUP and the UKUP had. The parties who forged the Agreement were busy directing our time and energies towards moving Northern Ireland forward, not dragging it backwards. But having done so, we now have an Agreement which the overwhelming majority of people can and will support.”
01 May 1998
Alliance launches "Yes" campaign
The Alliance Party today launched their ‘Yes’ Campaign for the May 22 Referendum, at a press conference in their Party Headquarters.
Lord Alderdice said:
“From now to Referendum Day our single priority is to tell the people of Northern Ireland the truth about the Good Friday Agreement. The level of lies and misinformation that has been inspired by the ‘No’ campaign has been disappointing. Their campaign for a ‘No’ vote began long before the parties that had the courage to stay at the Talks had reached any agreement. With that in mind, it is perhaps not surprising that the information that they are giving people bears little similarity to the contents of the Agreement.”
At the Press Conference, Campaign Director Cllr. Richard Good showed journalists a room in the Party’s headquarters building which has been converted to an information room for the Referendum Campaign. Posters on the wall of the room read ‘Welcome to the Alliance Truth Commission’.
Cllr Good said:
“The volume of letters and calls received here at Party Headquarters and by our Councillors across Northern Ireland has shown us that many people who want to support this Agreement are becoming confused by the ‘No’ campaign. They are left in confusion when the DUP/UKUP campaign tell them things about the Agreement that, upon further reading, simply cannot be found anywhere in the Agreement. Our campaign is designed to do one thing - to tell it as it is to the people of Northern Ireland. When we do, I am convinced that people will recognise that the Agreement is a compromise - and the best way forward for all of us.”
Lord Alderdice said:
“From now to Referendum Day our single priority is to tell the people of Northern Ireland the truth about the Good Friday Agreement. The level of lies and misinformation that has been inspired by the ‘No’ campaign has been disappointing. Their campaign for a ‘No’ vote began long before the parties that had the courage to stay at the Talks had reached any agreement. With that in mind, it is perhaps not surprising that the information that they are giving people bears little similarity to the contents of the Agreement.”
At the Press Conference, Campaign Director Cllr. Richard Good showed journalists a room in the Party’s headquarters building which has been converted to an information room for the Referendum Campaign. Posters on the wall of the room read ‘Welcome to the Alliance Truth Commission’.
Cllr Good said:
“The volume of letters and calls received here at Party Headquarters and by our Councillors across Northern Ireland has shown us that many people who want to support this Agreement are becoming confused by the ‘No’ campaign. They are left in confusion when the DUP/UKUP campaign tell them things about the Agreement that, upon further reading, simply cannot be found anywhere in the Agreement. Our campaign is designed to do one thing - to tell it as it is to the people of Northern Ireland. When we do, I am convinced that people will recognise that the Agreement is a compromise - and the best way forward for all of us.”
30 April 1998
Alliance condemns Orange Order over meeting
North Belfast Alliance Constituency Representative Glyn Roberts has hit out at the Orange Order after it placed ‘petty’ preconditions on a meeting with North Belfast members to discuss the controversial ‘Tour Of the North’ parade next month.
Glyn Roberts said:
“The Alliance Party had requested a meeting tomorrow with Orange Order to put forward proposals to them which may prevent violent confrontation with the ‘Tour of the North’ parade.
“Today we were amazed to find that they have now refused to meet with us because one of our delegation is not an elected representative of Belfast City Council. Who on earth do they think are to make such an outrageous and rather stupid precondition as to who we have on our delegation.
“After all who has ever elected the Orange Order?
“We had serious proposals to put to them for a possible compromise and I can only conclude with this silly precondition that they simply are not interested in any form of accommodation over this parade.
Glyn Roberts said:
“The Alliance Party had requested a meeting tomorrow with Orange Order to put forward proposals to them which may prevent violent confrontation with the ‘Tour of the North’ parade.
“Today we were amazed to find that they have now refused to meet with us because one of our delegation is not an elected representative of Belfast City Council. Who on earth do they think are to make such an outrageous and rather stupid precondition as to who we have on our delegation.
“After all who has ever elected the Orange Order?
“We had serious proposals to put to them for a possible compromise and I can only conclude with this silly precondition that they simply are not interested in any form of accommodation over this parade.
Alliance condemns Lisburn bomb
Alliance Deputy Leader and Lisburn Councillor Seamus Close has condemned those who planted the car bomb in Lisburn this afternoon.
Seamus Close said:
“We must all be thankful that this device was dealt with safely, saving the people who live and work in Lisburn from danger.
“The planting of this bomb is a clear demonstration that there are those within our society who remain intent on following an agenda of death and destruction. These people are terrified that Northern Ireland might be beginning to move towards a future where the only thing they offer - a future without hope - is rejected and isolated.
“The best way to bend them a message that Northern Ireland does want a future with hope is to endorse the Agreement in the May 22 Referendum.
Seamus Close said:
“We must all be thankful that this device was dealt with safely, saving the people who live and work in Lisburn from danger.
“The planting of this bomb is a clear demonstration that there are those within our society who remain intent on following an agenda of death and destruction. These people are terrified that Northern Ireland might be beginning to move towards a future where the only thing they offer - a future without hope - is rejected and isolated.
“The best way to bend them a message that Northern Ireland does want a future with hope is to endorse the Agreement in the May 22 Referendum.
29 April 1998
Were the signals to blame? Neeson
Alliance Party Chief Whip Sean Neeson is calling on Translink to carry out an urgent investigation into this mornings train crash at Yorkgate and make public its findings into this crash and the similar crash on the Lisburn line in recent times.
Mr Neeson said:
“I am disturbed that Translink are trying to play down the significance of these two train crashes. I am aware that new signaling equipment has been tried out by the Transport Company and would like the public to know if this has been a contributory factor in these crashes. Fortunately, no one has been seriously injured in either crash but passengers need urgent reassurances from Translink.”
Mr Neeson said:
“I am disturbed that Translink are trying to play down the significance of these two train crashes. I am aware that new signaling equipment has been tried out by the Transport Company and would like the public to know if this has been a contributory factor in these crashes. Fortunately, no one has been seriously injured in either crash but passengers need urgent reassurances from Translink.”
Welcome for Mowlam's European funding initiative
Alliance Spokesperson on Europe, Alderman Sean Neeson, has welcomed the Secretary of State’s visit to the European Parliament, and urged his colleagues in Liberal Parties across Europe to respond positively to Mo Mowlam’s statement in the European Parliament this afternoon.
Alderman Neeson said:
“The Secretary of State is to be commended for this initiative. Anyone with any influence on those in the European Parliament must seek to ensure that Northern Ireland is not forgotten in the years ahead.
“There will be many dividends if we establish a peaceful future - but our social and economic problems will not disappear overnight.
“I have asked the Alliance Party’s colleagues in the Liberal Group in the Parliament to do all they can to keep Northern Ireland near the top of the European Union’s funding agenda.”
Alderman Neeson said:
“The Secretary of State is to be commended for this initiative. Anyone with any influence on those in the European Parliament must seek to ensure that Northern Ireland is not forgotten in the years ahead.
“There will be many dividends if we establish a peaceful future - but our social and economic problems will not disappear overnight.
“I have asked the Alliance Party’s colleagues in the Liberal Group in the Parliament to do all they can to keep Northern Ireland near the top of the European Union’s funding agenda.”
Rail crash inquiry demanded
Carrickfergus Alderman Stewart Dickson commenting on this mornings derailment at Yorkgate Railway Station expressed serious concern about Northern Ireland Railways recent safety record.
Alderman Dickson said:
“This accident following on from the recent accident at Adelaide involving a goods train requires Northern Ireland Railways to assure the travelling public that they are doing all in their power to ensure the safety of there trains track for their passengers.
“Although no one was injured in this mornings accident, it could have easily been a train full of school children travelling from Whitehead, Carrickfergus and Greenisland to Belfast.
“I saw the train myself this morning at Yorkgate and it is no doubt had there been passengers on board there would have been serious injuries.”
Alderman Dickson is now calling for a public inquiry into safety issues into Northern Ireland Railways.
Alderman Dickson said:
“This accident following on from the recent accident at Adelaide involving a goods train requires Northern Ireland Railways to assure the travelling public that they are doing all in their power to ensure the safety of there trains track for their passengers.
“Although no one was injured in this mornings accident, it could have easily been a train full of school children travelling from Whitehead, Carrickfergus and Greenisland to Belfast.
“I saw the train myself this morning at Yorkgate and it is no doubt had there been passengers on board there would have been serious injuries.”
Alderman Dickson is now calling for a public inquiry into safety issues into Northern Ireland Railways.
Alliance to launch "Yes" campaign
The Alliance Party will be launching their Yes Campaign for the Referendum at a
Press Conference in
Alliance Party Headquarters
this Friday 1 May at 10am
Alliance concern on Castlereagh decisions
Alliance Vice Chair, Councillor Peter Osborne, expressed concern and disappointment after last nights Castlereagh Council Meeting when:
Councillor Osborne said:
“I am dismayed Castlereagh is yet again, standing out as a bastion of backwoodsmen. I believe the Council is out of touch with grass roots feeling in the area.
“People want a Yes vote on 22 May. I am particularly annoyed with the Ulster Unionist Group. For months they have all attacked their Party Leadership.
“It is especially appalling that they will not countenance ever meeting with us to discuss a Yes Campaign in the Borough.”
Only 2 Unionists turned up for the vote, one backing the DUP and one voting against the DUP motion.
- The Council endorsed a DUP motion attacking the Agreement.
- The Ulster Unionist Group Leadership voted with the DUP against the Agreement.
- The Ulster Unionist Group turned down his request for a meeting to discuss co-ordination of a local ‘Yes’ Campaign.
Councillor Osborne said:
“I am dismayed Castlereagh is yet again, standing out as a bastion of backwoodsmen. I believe the Council is out of touch with grass roots feeling in the area.
“People want a Yes vote on 22 May. I am particularly annoyed with the Ulster Unionist Group. For months they have all attacked their Party Leadership.
“It is especially appalling that they will not countenance ever meeting with us to discuss a Yes Campaign in the Borough.”
Only 2 Unionists turned up for the vote, one backing the DUP and one voting against the DUP motion.
07 April 1998
"Don't repeat Sunningdale mistake": Alderdice
Alliance Leader, Lord Alderdice, Deputy Leader, Seamus Close and former Leader, Oliver Napier, have travelled to Hillsborough this evening to meet the Prime Minister.
On leaving Castle Buildings, the Alliance Leader said:
“I was pleased that the Prime Minister responded positively to our request that he travel urgently to Northern Ireland. The paper presented early this morning was a step backwards rather than forwards in our search for a settlement. The Prime Minister’s decision to come to the Talks has opened the possibility that an agreement could be reached.
“The Governments, and parties to the Talks, must realise that if they push too far in any agreement it will not work. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of 1974 and 1985 again. History has shown that even if Party Leaders, in the pressure of negotiations, sign up to an agreement, such agreements can collapse under pressure.
“The Prime Minister must learn from the mistakes of the past and help us to reach a realistic agreement by Thursday.”
NOTES:
Oliver Napier, former Alliance Leader was one of the four signatories to the 1973 Sunningdale Agreement which established a power-sharing Assembly in Belfast in 1974. This Agreement subsequently collapsed in the face of unionist pressure.
On leaving Castle Buildings, the Alliance Leader said:
“I was pleased that the Prime Minister responded positively to our request that he travel urgently to Northern Ireland. The paper presented early this morning was a step backwards rather than forwards in our search for a settlement. The Prime Minister’s decision to come to the Talks has opened the possibility that an agreement could be reached.
“The Governments, and parties to the Talks, must realise that if they push too far in any agreement it will not work. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of 1974 and 1985 again. History has shown that even if Party Leaders, in the pressure of negotiations, sign up to an agreement, such agreements can collapse under pressure.
“The Prime Minister must learn from the mistakes of the past and help us to reach a realistic agreement by Thursday.”
NOTES:
Oliver Napier, former Alliance Leader was one of the four signatories to the 1973 Sunningdale Agreement which established a power-sharing Assembly in Belfast in 1974. This Agreement subsequently collapsed in the face of unionist pressure.
02 April 1998
Neeson condemns Larne attack
Alliance Chief Whip, Alderman Sean Neeson, has condemned this mornings’ petrol bomb attack in Larne as a blatantly sectarian act of attempted murder.
Mr Sean Neeson said:
“I am deeply concerned at the growing regularity of sectarian attacks in Larne and other parts of East Antrim.
“It is clear that there are groups of people who are hell-bent on creating sectarian division, especially as we near a possible political settlement.
“While the police have increased resources on the ground throughout East Antrim, these cowardly acts can only be brought to an end when the people responsible are brought to justice.”
Mr Sean Neeson said:
“I am deeply concerned at the growing regularity of sectarian attacks in Larne and other parts of East Antrim.
“It is clear that there are groups of people who are hell-bent on creating sectarian division, especially as we near a possible political settlement.
“While the police have increased resources on the ground throughout East Antrim, these cowardly acts can only be brought to an end when the people responsible are brought to justice.”
Close concerned at Andrews' statement
Alliance Deputy Leader, Seamus Close, has expressed concern at reports that David Andrews’ has implied that a referendum may not happen on 22 May. He has called upon Mr Andrews to clarify this matter.
Seamus Close said:
“Today, I have read newspaper reports indicating that David Andrews has implied that a referendum on a political agreement may not happen on 22 May.
“Alliance believes that slippage within the current process could be very dangerous. It is vital that the parties remain committed to working to the already publicised timetable.
“It is vital that Mr Andrews clarifies the Irish Government’s position on the referendum.”
Seamus Close said:
“Today, I have read newspaper reports indicating that David Andrews has implied that a referendum on a political agreement may not happen on 22 May.
“Alliance believes that slippage within the current process could be very dangerous. It is vital that the parties remain committed to working to the already publicised timetable.
“It is vital that Mr Andrews clarifies the Irish Government’s position on the referendum.”
01 April 1998
The Good Friday Agreement: The Alliance view
The Good Friday Agreement: The Alliance View
April 1998
1. Alliance believes that this is a Good Deal for all the People of Northern Ireland. We have always argued for an honourable compromise or accommodation, and shaped our policies on the constitutional question accordingly. This is now what we have achieved.
2. While it is a ground-breaking document, it is not perfect, and is not a solution to all our problems. No party can be entirely happy, every one has had to compromise. This is true for Alliance as much as any other party. NI has been paralysed for years through Unionists and Nationalists insisting on mutually incompatible objectives.
3. The Agreement must be either accepted or rejected as a whole package. After years of negotiations, there can be no cherry-picking. No other Agreement is capable of generating broad-based support across the community.
4. The Agreement reflects many of our ideas: 1. a power-sharing regional Assembly with legislative powers and a proper Executive; 2. accountable North-South structures; 3. a new more democratic East-West relationship; 4. protections for every person’s human rights; 5. entrenchment of the Principle of Consent.
5. There have been two types of compromise. The first are the political ones between Nationalists, Unionists and Alliance. The old quarrel over Northern Ireland’s constitutional status has been aside through near universal acceptance of consent. Institutions have been created that involve sharing. Uniting people within Northern Ireland is more important than fighting over territory.
6. The second type of compromise is about ending the violence. The deal is essentially between the parties with firm democratic roots, such as Alliance, SDLP & UUP, and the paramilitary parties - the UDP, PUP, and Sinn Fein. These compromises involved issues such as decommissioning and the release of politically-motivated prisoners.
7. Alliance is uneasy over these elements of the Agreement. There pose a moral dilemma for us all. These parts of the package where necessary to ensure that the paramilitary parties would accept the deal. Having them on board may increase the prospects of peace, but there are no guarantees.
8. These concessions are not all one way. The release of prisoners will be linked to the wider confidence of the community in the quality of the ceasefires. The places of these parties in the Executive are subject to the acceptance of purely democratic and peaceful means.
9. A strong Alliance voice will be necessary to make the Agreement work. We need to overcome the rigid divisions in our society, otherwise our future remains fragile. Too many people think about ‘two communities’ rather than realising we have one community whose divisions must be healed. Sectarian divisions must not be entrenched. People must be encouraged to move from fixed positions, otherwise the whole structure could eventually collapse. Alliance will designate themselves as “non-aligned” in the Assembly, rather than Unionist or Nationalists. The number of people so described will be an important indicator of any realignment.
10. Finally, the Agreement by itself does not guarantee peace, justice, stability and prosperity, nor the end of sectarianism. But it does provide a solid foundation on which we can build a better tomorrow. This Agreement can lead to the type of non-sectarian society that Alliance wants to see. But to achieve this vision we must work hard.
This is a edited version of an article from John Alderdice to appear in the Belfast Telegraph.
April 1998
1. Alliance believes that this is a Good Deal for all the People of Northern Ireland. We have always argued for an honourable compromise or accommodation, and shaped our policies on the constitutional question accordingly. This is now what we have achieved.
2. While it is a ground-breaking document, it is not perfect, and is not a solution to all our problems. No party can be entirely happy, every one has had to compromise. This is true for Alliance as much as any other party. NI has been paralysed for years through Unionists and Nationalists insisting on mutually incompatible objectives.
3. The Agreement must be either accepted or rejected as a whole package. After years of negotiations, there can be no cherry-picking. No other Agreement is capable of generating broad-based support across the community.
4. The Agreement reflects many of our ideas: 1. a power-sharing regional Assembly with legislative powers and a proper Executive; 2. accountable North-South structures; 3. a new more democratic East-West relationship; 4. protections for every person’s human rights; 5. entrenchment of the Principle of Consent.
5. There have been two types of compromise. The first are the political ones between Nationalists, Unionists and Alliance. The old quarrel over Northern Ireland’s constitutional status has been aside through near universal acceptance of consent. Institutions have been created that involve sharing. Uniting people within Northern Ireland is more important than fighting over territory.
6. The second type of compromise is about ending the violence. The deal is essentially between the parties with firm democratic roots, such as Alliance, SDLP & UUP, and the paramilitary parties - the UDP, PUP, and Sinn Fein. These compromises involved issues such as decommissioning and the release of politically-motivated prisoners.
7. Alliance is uneasy over these elements of the Agreement. There pose a moral dilemma for us all. These parts of the package where necessary to ensure that the paramilitary parties would accept the deal. Having them on board may increase the prospects of peace, but there are no guarantees.
8. These concessions are not all one way. The release of prisoners will be linked to the wider confidence of the community in the quality of the ceasefires. The places of these parties in the Executive are subject to the acceptance of purely democratic and peaceful means.
9. A strong Alliance voice will be necessary to make the Agreement work. We need to overcome the rigid divisions in our society, otherwise our future remains fragile. Too many people think about ‘two communities’ rather than realising we have one community whose divisions must be healed. Sectarian divisions must not be entrenched. People must be encouraged to move from fixed positions, otherwise the whole structure could eventually collapse. Alliance will designate themselves as “non-aligned” in the Assembly, rather than Unionist or Nationalists. The number of people so described will be an important indicator of any realignment.
10. Finally, the Agreement by itself does not guarantee peace, justice, stability and prosperity, nor the end of sectarianism. But it does provide a solid foundation on which we can build a better tomorrow. This Agreement can lead to the type of non-sectarian society that Alliance wants to see. But to achieve this vision we must work hard.
This is a edited version of an article from John Alderdice to appear in the Belfast Telegraph.
Building a future together
Building a future together
Lord Alderdice
April 1998
Agreement close
The next few months promise to some of the most exciting in Northern Ireland’s history. At long last, despite all the setbacks, we are finally in reach of an agreement in the Talks. We are closer to an historic breakthrough than at any time since 1973.
This current phase of Talks has lasted almost two years. Despite all the play acting, walk-outs and refusal to engage on substantive issues from many, the process is still on course. Both the British and Irish Governments have invested so much political capital in achieving a positive outcome, with the assistance of the Americans. The three independent Chairmen have made an enormous contribution to our forthcoming success. If some of Northern Ireland’s politicians throw this precious opportunity away, it will be hard our people to forgive them.
The shape of this agreement has been clear for quite some time: power-sharing regional government, accountable North-South arrangements, protections for human rights and entrenchment of the right of the people of Northern Ireland to democratically decide their own future, i.e. the principle of Consent. Alliance has been arguing for all of these principles for many years.
The significance of political parties from right across the community can agree on a new set of institutions for Northern Ireland, and the people of Ireland both North and South say ‘Yes’ in a referendum will be enormous. For the first time, all the people of the island will be agreeing on a common way forward. A powerful message will be sent to the paramilitaries, both Republican and Loyalist, that your violence can serve no political purpose.
Rebuilding society
These new institutions will not by themselves solve all of Northern Ireland’s problems. There are many social and economic problems remain to be tackled. Many of our politicians have neglected such issues as they have concentrated on constitutional and security issues. Northern Ireland will remain a deeply divided society. The cancers of tribalism and sectarianism that plague our society must be addressed.
Our new system of government will give the people of Northern Ireland the tools to build a new society. We will be given the opportunity to construct a new future together. Alliance is committed to helping them in this task of building a fair, just, peaceful and prosperous society.
But there are many obstacles to be faced. It can be anticipated that extreme Unionism and extreme Nationalism could join forces in some unholy alliance to bring the hard-earned agreements crashing down.
It is not enough to have an ‘historic compromise’ on institutions of government if the people of Northern Ireland are thrown into mutually opposed tribes. There is substantial evidence from other countries’ experiences with power-sharing that the more rigid the divisions within society, the more unstable that system of government will become. In Northern Ireland, we have the added problem of competing claims for self-determination. Success in our new experiment will depend upon increasing the pluralism within Northern Ireland and mutual acceptance of the principle of Consent.
Already, there is much more pluralism within Northern Ireland than people frequently imagine. Not everyone identifies themselves with Unionism or Nationalism, many people reject tribal politics and become frustrated when other people attempt to label or pigeon-hole them. Furthermore, neither Unionism nor Nationalism are monolithic blocs.
Yet, many people persist in describing Northern Ireland in terms of a ‘two communities’ problem. As if it was not bad enough that the ‘troubles’ have deepened the polarisation in our society, the use of such language creates and reinforces mindsets of division and separation. Perhaps it suits the agendas of some people, but it is deeply damaging to building a common sense of community within Northern Ireland.
Alliance believes that it is important that people are allowed to break out of tribal constraints, that such steps are acknowledged and appreciated, and that they are not disenfranchised or lose any political rights as a result of these choices.
We have been careful in the Talks to ensure that in the forthcoming system of government sectarian divisions or a ‘two communities’ analysis are not entrenched. These structures must on the one hand recognise that there are deep divisions within society, but be flexible enough to accommodate and even encourage a realignment of our political system away from one based on sectarianism to competing perspectives on how to deal with social and economic problems.
Policies pursued by the new Assembly and North-South body should be appraised on the basis of sharing v separation. Will they help overcome the sectarianism and segregation endemic in so many aspects of our society or further add to these problems? The promotion of integrated education is a central objective.
Northern Ireland’s politicians have so far neglected its many social and economic problems. Alliance has called for a strong devolved Assembly with legislative and tax-varying powers to give public representatives the opportunity to shape society. No one seriously believes that Northern Ireland can survive and prosper without help from outside. But we in Northern Ireland need to escape from our dependency culture, and take more respsonsibility for our own actions. It is important that decisions, where possible and efficient, should be taken as close as possible to the people they affect.
We all need to turn our minds to the values that we want to underline Northern Ireland society, post-agreement. For a liberal party such as Alliance, these are straightforward. We must look to a liberal society based on respect for the individual, no matter what culture he or she chooses to identify with, tolerance for diversity, and respect and protection for everyone’s human rights. We need to foster a entreprenurial spirit to help in the creation of wealth, and the social conscience to ensure that everyone has a stake in society and has equality of opportunity, particularly access to free and quality health care and education.
Lord Alderdice is Leader of the Alliance Party.
Lord Alderdice
April 1998
Agreement close
The next few months promise to some of the most exciting in Northern Ireland’s history. At long last, despite all the setbacks, we are finally in reach of an agreement in the Talks. We are closer to an historic breakthrough than at any time since 1973.
This current phase of Talks has lasted almost two years. Despite all the play acting, walk-outs and refusal to engage on substantive issues from many, the process is still on course. Both the British and Irish Governments have invested so much political capital in achieving a positive outcome, with the assistance of the Americans. The three independent Chairmen have made an enormous contribution to our forthcoming success. If some of Northern Ireland’s politicians throw this precious opportunity away, it will be hard our people to forgive them.
The shape of this agreement has been clear for quite some time: power-sharing regional government, accountable North-South arrangements, protections for human rights and entrenchment of the right of the people of Northern Ireland to democratically decide their own future, i.e. the principle of Consent. Alliance has been arguing for all of these principles for many years.
The significance of political parties from right across the community can agree on a new set of institutions for Northern Ireland, and the people of Ireland both North and South say ‘Yes’ in a referendum will be enormous. For the first time, all the people of the island will be agreeing on a common way forward. A powerful message will be sent to the paramilitaries, both Republican and Loyalist, that your violence can serve no political purpose.
Rebuilding society
These new institutions will not by themselves solve all of Northern Ireland’s problems. There are many social and economic problems remain to be tackled. Many of our politicians have neglected such issues as they have concentrated on constitutional and security issues. Northern Ireland will remain a deeply divided society. The cancers of tribalism and sectarianism that plague our society must be addressed.
Our new system of government will give the people of Northern Ireland the tools to build a new society. We will be given the opportunity to construct a new future together. Alliance is committed to helping them in this task of building a fair, just, peaceful and prosperous society.
But there are many obstacles to be faced. It can be anticipated that extreme Unionism and extreme Nationalism could join forces in some unholy alliance to bring the hard-earned agreements crashing down.
It is not enough to have an ‘historic compromise’ on institutions of government if the people of Northern Ireland are thrown into mutually opposed tribes. There is substantial evidence from other countries’ experiences with power-sharing that the more rigid the divisions within society, the more unstable that system of government will become. In Northern Ireland, we have the added problem of competing claims for self-determination. Success in our new experiment will depend upon increasing the pluralism within Northern Ireland and mutual acceptance of the principle of Consent.
Already, there is much more pluralism within Northern Ireland than people frequently imagine. Not everyone identifies themselves with Unionism or Nationalism, many people reject tribal politics and become frustrated when other people attempt to label or pigeon-hole them. Furthermore, neither Unionism nor Nationalism are monolithic blocs.
Yet, many people persist in describing Northern Ireland in terms of a ‘two communities’ problem. As if it was not bad enough that the ‘troubles’ have deepened the polarisation in our society, the use of such language creates and reinforces mindsets of division and separation. Perhaps it suits the agendas of some people, but it is deeply damaging to building a common sense of community within Northern Ireland.
Alliance believes that it is important that people are allowed to break out of tribal constraints, that such steps are acknowledged and appreciated, and that they are not disenfranchised or lose any political rights as a result of these choices.
We have been careful in the Talks to ensure that in the forthcoming system of government sectarian divisions or a ‘two communities’ analysis are not entrenched. These structures must on the one hand recognise that there are deep divisions within society, but be flexible enough to accommodate and even encourage a realignment of our political system away from one based on sectarianism to competing perspectives on how to deal with social and economic problems.
Policies pursued by the new Assembly and North-South body should be appraised on the basis of sharing v separation. Will they help overcome the sectarianism and segregation endemic in so many aspects of our society or further add to these problems? The promotion of integrated education is a central objective.
Northern Ireland’s politicians have so far neglected its many social and economic problems. Alliance has called for a strong devolved Assembly with legislative and tax-varying powers to give public representatives the opportunity to shape society. No one seriously believes that Northern Ireland can survive and prosper without help from outside. But we in Northern Ireland need to escape from our dependency culture, and take more respsonsibility for our own actions. It is important that decisions, where possible and efficient, should be taken as close as possible to the people they affect.
We all need to turn our minds to the values that we want to underline Northern Ireland society, post-agreement. For a liberal party such as Alliance, these are straightforward. We must look to a liberal society based on respect for the individual, no matter what culture he or she chooses to identify with, tolerance for diversity, and respect and protection for everyone’s human rights. We need to foster a entreprenurial spirit to help in the creation of wealth, and the social conscience to ensure that everyone has a stake in society and has equality of opportunity, particularly access to free and quality health care and education.
Lord Alderdice is Leader of the Alliance Party.
Alliance puzzled by North Down press vote
North Down Councillor, Stephen Farry, has expressed puzzlement that North Down Council first voted to exclude the Public and Press from Standing Committees, and then voted to readmit the public to these meetings as the Press are members of the public.
Stephen Farry said:
“The decision to exclude press and public from the Standing Committees of Council was a backward step. North Down conducts its business through standing committee of the whole council which in practice become de facto mini-Councils. As long as this remains the case decisions should be open to public scrutiny.
“There are major problems as to how business is conducted within the Council; most other parties are not operating in a disciplined manner. North Down should put its house in order at the expense of open and accountable local government. Other means should be pursued.
“The decision however to readmit the public to these committee meetings is very puzzling. The press are members of the public and are therefore entitled to come along. Discussions and decisions will be in the public domain, and therefore eligible to be reported. Why would some on the Council therefore go to the trouble and raise the controversy over excluding the press, when they immediately reversed their decision? Why was the issue raised in the first place, causing much time to be wasted?”
Stephen Farry said:
“The decision to exclude press and public from the Standing Committees of Council was a backward step. North Down conducts its business through standing committee of the whole council which in practice become de facto mini-Councils. As long as this remains the case decisions should be open to public scrutiny.
“There are major problems as to how business is conducted within the Council; most other parties are not operating in a disciplined manner. North Down should put its house in order at the expense of open and accountable local government. Other means should be pursued.
“The decision however to readmit the public to these committee meetings is very puzzling. The press are members of the public and are therefore entitled to come along. Discussions and decisions will be in the public domain, and therefore eligible to be reported. Why would some on the Council therefore go to the trouble and raise the controversy over excluding the press, when they immediately reversed their decision? Why was the issue raised in the first place, causing much time to be wasted?”
Poll shows people "hungry" for agreement: Farry
Alliance Party Spokesperson, Stephen Farry, has welcomed the results of the Opinion Poll published in the Belfast Telegraph as a strong indication that the people of Northern Ireland are hungry for political agreement.
Stephen Farry said:
“This latest poll shows that the people of Northern Ireland are hungry for a political agreement.
“There is overwhelming support right across the community for a package of measures that closely resembles what could be potentially agreed within the Talks.
“I believe that all the political parties that are seeking agreement should take encouragement from the results, and have the confidence to take the key decisions necessary to deliver the agreement.
“Some people who are opposed to any agreement who will try to rubbish these findings. But this poll was a scientifically conducted poll; it is an accurate reflection of current public opinion.”
Stephen Farry said:
“This latest poll shows that the people of Northern Ireland are hungry for a political agreement.
“There is overwhelming support right across the community for a package of measures that closely resembles what could be potentially agreed within the Talks.
“I believe that all the political parties that are seeking agreement should take encouragement from the results, and have the confidence to take the key decisions necessary to deliver the agreement.
“Some people who are opposed to any agreement who will try to rubbish these findings. But this poll was a scientifically conducted poll; it is an accurate reflection of current public opinion.”
09 March 1998
Agreement is now in sight: Alliance
Agreement is now in sight: Alliance
9 March 1998
Speaking after the Alliance Party AGM in Portadown, North Down Councillor Stephen Farry has argued that an agreement in the Multi-Party Talks is now greater than ever.
Stephen Farry said:
“As we enter March, the final phase of the Talks has begun. There is now a really strong chance that there will be a political agreement by Easter.
“There are still some obstacles in the way.
“There is naturally much pessimism throughout the community about the chances of an agreement. This is not surprising: many of Northern Ireland’s politicians have let everybody down too many times in the past.
“We are now closer to a cross-community agreement than at any time since 1973."
9 March 1998
Speaking after the Alliance Party AGM in Portadown, North Down Councillor Stephen Farry has argued that an agreement in the Multi-Party Talks is now greater than ever.
Stephen Farry said:
“As we enter March, the final phase of the Talks has begun. There is now a really strong chance that there will be a political agreement by Easter.
“There are still some obstacles in the way.
“There is naturally much pessimism throughout the community about the chances of an agreement. This is not surprising: many of Northern Ireland’s politicians have let everybody down too many times in the past.
“We are now closer to a cross-community agreement than at any time since 1973."
23 February 1998
Neeson condemns Portadown attack
Alliance Deputy Leader, Alderman Sean Neeson, has condemned today’s bomb attack in Portadown.
Alderman Neeson said:
“I condemn without reservation this disgraceful attack, which is clearly not only an attack on the homes and livelihoods of ordinary people, but an attack on the integrity of the Talks process.”
Alderman Neeson said:
“I condemn without reservation this disgraceful attack, which is clearly not only an attack on the homes and livelihoods of ordinary people, but an attack on the integrity of the Talks process.”
Neeson attacks Sinn Fein hypocrisy
Alliance Party Chief Whip, Sean Neeson has attacked the hypocrisy of Sinn Fein in trying to portray themselves as victims of the talks process.
Alderman Neeson said:
“Unlike the Loyalist paramilitaries, not once has Sinn Fein apologized to the thousands of real victims who have been murdered and maimed by the bombs and bullets of the IRA. It is sickening to most people in Northern Ireland to watch these apologists for violence troop with crocodile tears on the streets because of their legitimate, albeit temporary, expulsion from the talks.”
Alderman Neeson said:
“Unlike the Loyalist paramilitaries, not once has Sinn Fein apologized to the thousands of real victims who have been murdered and maimed by the bombs and bullets of the IRA. It is sickening to most people in Northern Ireland to watch these apologists for violence troop with crocodile tears on the streets because of their legitimate, albeit temporary, expulsion from the talks.”
20 February 1998
Alliance condemns latest murder
Alliance Deputy Leader, Seamus Close, has condemned today’s murder of a man in Dunmurry.
Seamus Close, Lisburn Borough Councillor, said:
“Whatever the circumstances, there is no justification for a single one of the recent murders and shootings. None of the organisations involved have the right to take away human life."
Seamus Close, Lisburn Borough Councillor, said:
“Whatever the circumstances, there is no justification for a single one of the recent murders and shootings. None of the organisations involved have the right to take away human life."
04 February 1998
Talks must deal with future Euro links: Neeson
Alliance Party Chief Whip, Sean Neeson, has called for the Talks Process to put a greater emphasis on Northern Ireland’s future links with the European Union.
Mr Neeson said:
“The Scottish and Welsh Offices have already started major promotional work in Brussels in advance of devolution being established in their countries. They obviously recognise the importance of direct links with the EU, especially as the United Kingdom government becomes more decentralised.
“Northern Ireland people must have a more direct role in negotiating with the EU, as the Europe of the Regions and the principle of subsidiarity become a reality.”
Mr Neeson said:
“The Scottish and Welsh Offices have already started major promotional work in Brussels in advance of devolution being established in their countries. They obviously recognise the importance of direct links with the EU, especially as the United Kingdom government becomes more decentralised.
“Northern Ireland people must have a more direct role in negotiating with the EU, as the Europe of the Regions and the principle of subsidiarity become a reality.”
McBride criticises Parades legislation
Cllr Steve McBride, Alliance Party spokesman on Justice and Human Rights has criticised government proposals to amend the forthcoming Parades legislation to require objectors to give two weeks notice of protests against marches.
Cllr McBride said:
"The Parades legislation now before Parliament is extremely important, but the latest proposed government amendment is unwise, unworkable, and unhelpful. It seeks to throw a sop to Unionists by drawing a false comparison between marchers and protesters which will not be in any way helpful in resolving these difficult situations. Those who organise marches are part of organisations and obviously make their plans in advance - they can reasonable be expected to give notice in good time. Protests on the other hand can emerge at short notice and are not normally organised by formal organisations, and of course protesters are in any event covered by general public order legislation. To effectively make illegal a protest for which two weeks notice has not been given is an infringement of civil liberties and one which will simply lead to increased tension and argument. This vital legislation on a crucial issue should not be endangered by this spurious and misguided political juggling act."
Cllr McBride said:
"The Parades legislation now before Parliament is extremely important, but the latest proposed government amendment is unwise, unworkable, and unhelpful. It seeks to throw a sop to Unionists by drawing a false comparison between marchers and protesters which will not be in any way helpful in resolving these difficult situations. Those who organise marches are part of organisations and obviously make their plans in advance - they can reasonable be expected to give notice in good time. Protests on the other hand can emerge at short notice and are not normally organised by formal organisations, and of course protesters are in any event covered by general public order legislation. To effectively make illegal a protest for which two weeks notice has not been given is an infringement of civil liberties and one which will simply lead to increased tension and argument. This vital legislation on a crucial issue should not be endangered by this spurious and misguided political juggling act."
02 February 1998
Alliance slams intimidation
Alliance Councillor David Ford, has slammed those who distributed LVF posters in South Antrim at the weekend.
David Ford said:
“These posters were nothing but a crude attempt by Loyalist terrorists to impose their will on local people. I condemn all such intimidation, wherever it comes from.
“At The Talks in London last week, the UDP delegation walked out because other parties joined Alliance in making clear that we believed them to be in breach of the Mitchell principles.
“Afterwards, there was a much more constructive atmosphere, and some progress was made.
“It is important at this time that all parties, and all responsible leaders, stand together in support of the talks process and against all those who would try to disrupt the hopes invested in The Talks.”
David Ford said:
“These posters were nothing but a crude attempt by Loyalist terrorists to impose their will on local people. I condemn all such intimidation, wherever it comes from.
“At The Talks in London last week, the UDP delegation walked out because other parties joined Alliance in making clear that we believed them to be in breach of the Mitchell principles.
“Afterwards, there was a much more constructive atmosphere, and some progress was made.
“It is important at this time that all parties, and all responsible leaders, stand together in support of the talks process and against all those who would try to disrupt the hopes invested in The Talks.”
Ford supports peace rally
Councillor David Ford, Alliance Spokesperson for South Antrim, has congratulated the organisers of last weeks peace rallies.
David Ford said:
“It was important that people had the opportunity to show their opposition to violence. After all the murders last month, there was a feeling of great fear across Northern Ireland.
“By coming together at a number of rallies, ordinary people - both Catholic and Protestant - showed their commitment to building a peaceful society here.
“As I was in Belfast, I attended the rally at the City Hall. I was disgusted by the behaviour of a group of Republicans who attempted to hijack the rally for their own purposes.
“Fortunately, the great majority of those present treated this behaviour with disdain, and showed their opposition to violence from all sides.”
David Ford said:
“It was important that people had the opportunity to show their opposition to violence. After all the murders last month, there was a feeling of great fear across Northern Ireland.
“By coming together at a number of rallies, ordinary people - both Catholic and Protestant - showed their commitment to building a peaceful society here.
“As I was in Belfast, I attended the rally at the City Hall. I was disgusted by the behaviour of a group of Republicans who attempted to hijack the rally for their own purposes.
“Fortunately, the great majority of those present treated this behaviour with disdain, and showed their opposition to violence from all sides.”
27 January 1998
Alderdice: The ball is in our court
Alliance Leader, Lord Alderdice, commenting on today’s Strand 2 paper from the British and Irish Governments, has called for the parties to address the questions raised.
Speaking from Lancaster House, Lord Alderdice said:
“Last week, the parties batted the ball to the two Governments. Today the Governments just batted the ball back.
“This paper is just a series of questions to focus the negotiations, but already some parties are trying to bat the ball back to the Governments again.
“I would appeal to colleagues in the Talks to stop playing this game of pingpong and start giving answers to the questions.
“Some parties will find the questions more difficult to answer than others. But avoiding the questions, and passing the buck, is an irresponsible waste of negotiating time.”
Speaking from Lancaster House, Lord Alderdice said:
“Last week, the parties batted the ball to the two Governments. Today the Governments just batted the ball back.
“This paper is just a series of questions to focus the negotiations, but already some parties are trying to bat the ball back to the Governments again.
“I would appeal to colleagues in the Talks to stop playing this game of pingpong and start giving answers to the questions.
“Some parties will find the questions more difficult to answer than others. But avoiding the questions, and passing the buck, is an irresponsible waste of negotiating time.”
05 January 1998
Dickson welcomes cold weather payments
Carrickfergus Alliance Councillor Stewart Dickson has welcomed Health Minister Tony Worthington’s decision to provide cold weather payments to Northern Ireland’s pensioners.
Alderman Dickson, who is the new health spokesperson for the Alliance Party, said the payments would be appreciated by Northern Ireland’s pensioners - particularly after last weekend’s treacherous weather conditions.
Alderman Dickson said: “I would like to commend the Minister for providing these winter payments. Many pensioners faced a bleak Christmas as a result of the bad weather.
“The necessary conditions for payments were triggered by recent storms and bad weather. However, the Department of Health and Social Services does not take into account higher domestic fuel costs in Northern Ireland.
“I understand that funding for solid fuel in glass fronted fires has not been provided and despite recent reductions in electrical prices - costs are still very high. And for most domestic customers - gas is not yet a reality.
“If the bad weather continues, I would hope that the Government would take all the matters that I have listed into account. If the bad weather continues - it’s essential that the Government look’s after Northern Ireland’s pensioners.”
Alderman Dickson, who is the new health spokesperson for the Alliance Party, said the payments would be appreciated by Northern Ireland’s pensioners - particularly after last weekend’s treacherous weather conditions.
Alderman Dickson said: “I would like to commend the Minister for providing these winter payments. Many pensioners faced a bleak Christmas as a result of the bad weather.
“The necessary conditions for payments were triggered by recent storms and bad weather. However, the Department of Health and Social Services does not take into account higher domestic fuel costs in Northern Ireland.
“I understand that funding for solid fuel in glass fronted fires has not been provided and despite recent reductions in electrical prices - costs are still very high. And for most domestic customers - gas is not yet a reality.
“If the bad weather continues, I would hope that the Government would take all the matters that I have listed into account. If the bad weather continues - it’s essential that the Government look’s after Northern Ireland’s pensioners.”
Campbell calls for urgent action on waste disposal
The future of waste disposal in Larne and Carrickfergus should be addressed by the Department of the Environment within the next few weeks, Alliance Councillor John Campbell has claimed.
Councillor Campbell, who congratulated Larne Borough Council’s Mr. Maurice Crum for his efforts in highlighting the problem, said that decisions - including those from council officers - should be made for future planning.
Councillor Campbell said: “The issue of waste disposal is a matter of grave importance for the people of Larne and Carrickfergus. That’s why the matter should be addressed immediately.
“We need to have some serious technical thinking from the DoE, Larne and Carrickfergus borough council and from the relevant agencies involved with the waste disposal industry.
“I think we need to have an alternative to the land fill site method of waste disposal and I also believe that we should be looking at new systems of dumping. This has been a continuing problem and we must find a solution.
“I also understand that the tipping of the council’s bin lorry provides the biggest cost - apart from council wages - to the council. The issue of the environment is vitally important and I firmly believe that it must be addressed before the year 2000.”
Councillor Campbell, who congratulated Larne Borough Council’s Mr. Maurice Crum for his efforts in highlighting the problem, said that decisions - including those from council officers - should be made for future planning.
Councillor Campbell said: “The issue of waste disposal is a matter of grave importance for the people of Larne and Carrickfergus. That’s why the matter should be addressed immediately.
“We need to have some serious technical thinking from the DoE, Larne and Carrickfergus borough council and from the relevant agencies involved with the waste disposal industry.
“I think we need to have an alternative to the land fill site method of waste disposal and I also believe that we should be looking at new systems of dumping. This has been a continuing problem and we must find a solution.
“I also understand that the tipping of the council’s bin lorry provides the biggest cost - apart from council wages - to the council. The issue of the environment is vitally important and I firmly believe that it must be addressed before the year 2000.”
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