Statement by Cardinal Seán Brady on Loyalist Decommissioning

27 Jun 2009

PRESS RELEASE
27 June 2009

Loyalist Decommissioning: Statement by Cardinal Seán Brady

‘I welcome the confirmation today that the Loyalist paramilitary groups the UVF and Red Hand Commando have decommissioned their illegal weapons in a verifiable way and that the UDA have started this process with a firm commitment to complete the decommissioning process.

My first thoughts are for those for whom this news will evoke painful memories of loved ones lost and lives destroyed through the utter futility and evil of violence.

News of these acts of decommissioning will be particularly welcomed within the Catholic community which was the target of so much of the violence of Loyalist paramilitary groups.

I renew my appeal to all paramilitary groups to decommission their weapons completely and to give the people of Northern Ireland, especially the young, further grounds to hope that the peaceful, normal society for which we all yearn is now in sight.

I pray that what has been announced today will help us to move further away from fear and suspicion to greater trust, good will and friendship among all, whatever our background or identity. This is the only future worthy of our human dignity. It is the reconciled and peaceful future to which the Gospel calls us.’

– Cardinal Seán Brady

ENDS

Further information:
Brenda Drumm, Communications Officer  087 233 7797