Statement on UDA Decommissioning from Bishops of Northern Province
Statement Following the Announcement of UDA Weapons Decommissioning from the Bishops of the Northern Province of the Church of Ireland
Today's announcement confirming the putting beyond use of all UDA weapons is to be warmly welcomed and gives encouragement at the beginning of this New Year. It marks a major step towards building a peaceful, stable and just society. It is our hope that the removal of the means to paramilitary violence will be received positively by all and give confidence to our politically elected representatives. It is important for all strands of our community to find productive ways of expressing their political and cultural aspirations with respect for everyone.
We respect the integrity and judgement of Lord Eames and Sir George Quigley in the independent eye-witnessing process and of General John de Chastelain’s confirmation of it.
We remember in our prayers the families of all who have lost loved-ones or been affected as a result of conflict in our society.
The Most Revd Alan Harper, OBE, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All IrelandThe Right Revd Dr Michael Jackson, Bishop of ClogherThe Right Revd Ken Good, Bishop of Derry and RaphoeThe Right Revd Harold Miller, Bishop of Down and DromoreThe Right Revd Alan Abernethy, Bishop of ConnorThe Right Revd Ken Clarke, Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and ArdaghThe Right Revd Dr Richard Henderson, Bishop of Tuam, Killala and Achonry
ENDS
Issued by:Church of Ireland Church of Ireland House61-67 Donegall StreetBelfast BT1 2QHTel: (028) 9023 2909 Fax (028) 9032 3554
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