Church leaders' concern at violence in North

PATSY McGARRY Religious Affairs Correspondent

THE FOUR main church leaders are “greatly concerned” at the levels of violent crime in Northern Ireland and have called for “a comprehensive and collective approach” to deal with it.

They described as “disturbing” attacks on the elderly and vulnerable others and expressed “particular concern” at the activities of paramilitary groups.

Writing to the First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, the four leaders called on “everyone in Northern Ireland to support the PSNI and to co-operate fully with them in bringing those who commit crime to the due process of the law. This is fundamental to the peace and stability of a just and democratic society”.

The Catholic primate Cardinal Seán Brady, the Church of Ireland primate Archbishop Alan Harper, Presbyterian Moderator the Rev Dr Stafford Carson, and the President of the Methodist Church Rev Donald Kerr also called “on all armed paramilitary groups to immediately disarm and to stop all criminal activity”.

They said they wished to highlight the need for a comprehensive and collective approach by all community and political leaders in responding to the issue of violence, in general, “so that the future of Northern Ireland will be one of peaceful respect and care for every person, particularly the most vulnerable in our society”.

They encouraged “all in positions of political influence to continue to provide leadership which demonstrates our ability as a society to overcome difference and work together for a better and stable future. We assure you of our continuing prayers for you in this vital enterprise”.