Archbishop in plea for political stability
The head of the Anglican Church made an impassioned plea today to Northern Ireland’s politicians to redouble their efforts to achieve political stability, following the recent Assembly elections.
Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop Robin Eames, used the unveiling of a memorial window to murdered soldiers to make his plea.
He dedicated the ornate stained glass window at Drumadd Barracks in Armagh in honour of 98 serving and 32 former members of local battalions of the former Ulster Defence Regiment and Royal Irish Regiment who died during the decades of terrorist violence.
Families of those who died joined serving members of the RIR for the simple service.
The Archbishop said if memories of the past meant anything in Northern Ireland there must surely be “a new determination that we will never, never let the tragic past return”.
“That is the call of the vast majority of people in our community – it is a call we cannot ignore.”
Lingering memories of tragedy and loss made it all the more important that a future of peace and understanding was built.
“It makes it all the more important that despite the difficulties we all recognise, politicians redouble their efforts to face up to the challenge.
“It makes it all the more important that ways are found to reach political stability now that the election is over.
“The memories we cherish this morning in this service of Remembrance deserve, demand and call out for that response.”
