Security over NI hinders peace pilgrims

THE renewed trouble in the North has affected the whole island of Ireland.

It meant that a Sligo woman could not realise her wish to return to the summit of Croagh Patrick on the western shores of Co Mayo at 102 years of age.

The event was planned at the weekend gas part of a peace pilgrimage involving 100 people from the north, the south and abroad.

It coincides with a similar peace mission there 10 years ago organised by Rehab, the organisation which aims to enable people with disabilities to live fully independent lives.

It had been hoped that an Air Corps helicopter would bring Mrs Mary Ellen McGuinn, a former national school teacher, from Curry, Co Sligo, to the top of the 2,510 foot reek. Increased security in the wake of the violence, however, militated against what would have been a remarkable undertaking.

Instead, Mrs McGuinn was carried by chair up the mountain to the first statue along the pilgrim route. Here, she lit a candle and a small prayer service was held. "We are here in the cause of peace," she said, "To live peace is a sign of the just man."

She dismissed her achievement in climbing at least part of the mountain but conceded: "At 102, I suppose it's not a usual occurrence."

As she left she said: "I enjoyed this day. It was one of the best days of my life."

The rest of the pilgrims, led by Mayo football team manager, Capt John Manghan, continued the climb, and in the midst of a heavy mist formed a peace circle at the summit. "It took on an added significance with the troubles in the north over the past week," he said.