Dodds invites former security force members to Brussels

The 20-strong group of ex-police officers, prison officers and members of the Armed Forces – from Bangor-based advocacy organisation Decorum NI – had been invited to Brussels by DUP MEP Diane Dodds

Following the seminar, Mrs Dodds said the sacrifice of those who served their communities “will never be forgotten”.

She said: “I know the moving accounts of the impact of terrorism in their lives, and indeed on their families, touched the hearts of EU officials and MEPs in attendance.

“Many stories typified the courage and relentless dedication of the RUC and UDR.”

Mrs Dodds said it was an honour to host the seminar, and added: “It is vital that those who sacrificed enormously in the face of terrorism in Northern Ireland are empowered to play a key role in building the future. We must never confuse an innocent victim with a terrorist or allow rogue revisionism to diminish the unquestionable bravery of our security forces.”

Mrs Dodds also said the experiences of those who suffered in Northern Ireland were similar to terror victims in other areas of Europe.

“At the seminar we were privileged to hear from two Spanish MEPs, Mrs Teresa Jimenez Becerril-Barrio and Ms Maite Pagazaurtundúa, both of whom lost siblings at the hands of ruthless ETA terrorists,” she said.

“I know the group were not only humbled and inspired by their powerful stories but encouraged by their positive outlook for the future.

“It was also pleasing to hear from representatives of the Radicalisation Awareness Network’s (RAN) Working Group on Remembrance of Victims of Terrorism. This organisation is operated by the European Commission to unite the voices of innocent victims, counter extremism and educate young people across the EU.”