A chara, – Ross McCarthy’s criticism of Gerry Adams and Sinn Féin’s campaign for a Border poll (January 17th) contains a mix of inaccuracies, presumptions and an obvious disdain for Gerry Adams.
The Belfast Agreement is nearly 15 years old and the idea that Sinn Féin is suddenly pursuing “incendiary policies” after such a length of time simply does not stack up. The notion, so prevalent in the media, that Sinn Féin has somehow caused the current flag dispute is untrue. Sinn Féin compromised on the flag issue by joining with the Alliance Party’s motion and voting in support of the Union flag to be flown on Belfast City Hall in accordance with normal designated dates. Rather than acknowledge such a generous compromise this fact has been virtually ignored by many. Sinn Féin’s actions at Belfast City Hall also contradict Mr McCarthy’s assertion that “the vast majority of the people of Northern Ireland are being served very poorly by their community and political leaders”. Compromise is hardly evidence of lack of leadership.
The Belfast Agreement set in motion a path to peace by accepting those living in the North could see themselves as Irish, British or even both. Yet Mr McCarthy shows scant regard for the agreement by pettily stating that Gerry Adams “is no longer a public representative in the country of his birth, the United Kingdom”. Thankfully, such terminology, used to deliberately antagonise those of an opposite viewpoint, is avoided in the six counties. Perhaps Mr McCarthy has also forgotten that while Gerry Adams is now a TD he is also a member of a 32-county political party.
The assertion that “there is no evidence in any recent polls that suggests a majority of people in Northern Ireland would vote for a united political, legal and economic entity on this island” is somewhat baffling. Mr Adams has called for a Border poll and yet Mr McCarthy uses anecdotal evidence from unidentified local polls to suggest an organised Border poll is unnecessary! In any case, as was evident from the first Nice and Lisbon referendums, there is never an assured outcome from any national poll before it takes place.
In conclusion, it should be noted the recent vote in Belfast City Hall concerning the Union flag was an example of democracy at work. Likewise, a Border poll would be an example of democracy at work. Our greatest concern should not be that Mr Adams is calling for a Border poll; it is to see so many challenging democracy at work. – Is mise,