Secrecy is not the best option
THE request by the PSNI in Londonderry asking judges to consider withholding names of drug suspects in the city to ensure their safety from vigilantes is a very dangerous step in an open society.
The police have a statutory duty to preserve life and limb and there can be no public sympathy for shadowy groups who take the law into their own hands and act arbitrarily as judge and jury, spuriously as community defenders.
While dangers are all too apparent for those appearing in court on serious drug charges, it is improper for the police to decide which cases are reported and those which are not.
The public has a very important right to know precisely what goes in our courts and, not just in cases where the PSNI is happy to release the full details.
By withholding addresses of suspects, the PSNI runs the risk of mistaken identity where innocent people with the same name are attacked.
Vigilantes must not be allowed to dictate the course of justice in the courts, but if there are concerns about the safety of accused, then the courts can refuse bail.
Church vision
Church pastoral work in areas of Northern Ireland where the Troubles and civil unrest has impacted deeply has been a traumatic assignment and incoming Presbyterian Moderator the Rev Norman Hamilton can speak with authority of his experiences in North Belfast.
Mr Hamilton is a very worthy choice to lead Presbyterians. His Christian witness is well grounded and focused to serve the wider church.
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Weather for Belfast
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
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