Fence recommended to separate Ardoyne residents

A report by independent arbitrators appointed by the Stormont Executive on the problems in the Ardoyne flashpoint area of north…

A report by independent arbitrators appointed by the Stormont Executive on the problems in the Ardoyne flashpoint area of north Belfast have recommended the construction of a 3.6 metre fence and a wall to protect loyalist and nationalist residents from attacks.

The report by US conflict consultants Sue and Steve Williams also called for further attempts to build confidence and encourage dialogue between the two communities.

On receiving the report, Deputy First Minister Mr Mark Durkan said Stormont ministers had long advocated community dialogue as "a lasting solution to the tensions and divisions at this interface".

The nationalist SDLP leader continued: "We are fully committed to supporting dialogue between the two communities which we believe to be more urgent than ever given the increased tensions in the area in recent weeks.

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"We therefore ask all parties to provide feedback to the arbitrators in order to assist in achieving meaningful community dialogue."

Northern Ireland First Minister Mr David Trimble said the Executive in recent months had "sought to build a consensus and make progress in the area by offering assistance with both community dialogue and community safety".

He thanked Mr and Mrs Williams for their work and said ministers were now examining how best to implement their recommendations as quickly as possible.

PA