A chara Observing events in Drumcree this week, I find it difficult to see how the actions of David Trimble and the Orange Order can offer any hope of a resolution. The brutal death of Michael McGoldrick in Lurgan, numerous loyalist roadblocks and the attacks on Catholic families in north Belfast, have all led to heightened fear and tension throughout Northern Ireland.
Responsibility for the reign of terror of this week must lie with the leaders of the Orange Order and the main unionist parties, and not with Hugh Annesley, local residents or anyone else. Clearly, those who bring people on to the streets have a responsibility for any actions that occur as a result. It is in the interests of everyone on this island that we reach a speedy resolution to this issue.
Obviously, any solution was made all the more difficult because of the response to last year's compromise in Drumcree, when David Trimble said "There was no compromise. We have come down the traditional route in normal fashion with our flags flying." It is unfortunate that the Orange Order throughout the year refused to talk to the local residents of the Garvaghy Road, so that all of this could have been avoided. Is mise, Fitzroy Avenue, Drumcondra, Dublin 3.