Sir, - Northern Ireland has endured 25 years of terrible civil strife, the detail and horrific consequences of which I have followed in The Irish Times during the same period.
As a result of the tireless efforts of many people, including Albert Reynolds, all guns in Ireland have been silent for almost two years. Total peace has yet to be made, and its making will require further great effort and new thinking. The challenge for all is enormous but as John Hume has often said so is the prize.
am, therefore, deeply saddened to see the newspaper I have so long respected for its vision and sensitivity in these affairs carry an editorial (June 3rd). "The Fall Back Option - Murder" which I consider irresponsible and offensive. It is irresponsible in this situation to hector any section in such an unworthy manner. It is grossly offensive to envisage a return to "the extensive security measures of previous years" in such a cavalier fashion, and to end with a cheap swipe at a man who has certainly done more for peace and the nurturing of hope than did The Irish Times on June 3rd. - Yours, etc.,
Lodge Manor,
Coleraine.