Methodist President on the recent violence across the Province

While recognising that most of the violence that ocurred over the period of the 12th July parades was the work of young hooligans and not directly due to sectarianism, I would wish to condemn such needless violence.  

Violence from whatever source serves only to heighten people's fears and further damage our reputation abroad.  

I want to commend and encourage Church and community leaders for their continued efforts in seeking to create the conditions for dialogue and better understanding within communities where there is the potential for misunderstanding.  

I believe the majority of our people want to live in an atmosphere free from tension ad are opposed to any expression of violence that would destroy efforts designed to create trust within the community.    

Rev. Ian D. Henderson  

President of the Methodist Church in Ireland. (0035374 9723588)