Bombers should make their peace
THE sculpture created by Elizabeth McLaughlin for the Claudy Memorial expresses something more powerfully than could be expressed by words – the anguish and distress which violence invariably produces.
The human cost of violence is always too high and the people of Claudy, like so many others, are still dealing with the consequences of acts of merciless brutality.
Precious lives so cruelly cut short. Serious injuries of body and mind inflicted. Futures denied and hearts broken.
The Police Ombudsman's report has brought us back to the reality and awfulness of violence – a shocking reality in which the lives of young and old were so brutally taken and the lives of many others were blighted and scarred.
The members of this community, and I personally, wish to stand in solidarity with those so deeply affected by these bombings.
To hear the report describe how the original investigation was compromised is disturbing and shocking.
One of the foundational values for our community is an acceptance of the rule of law.
We are left with the unmistakable sense that the proper processes of the law did not prevail in the aftermath of the Claudy bombings.
If this was indeed the case, then it did not serve the best interests of the wider community, let alone meet the needs of those most immediately affected.
When an injustice has taken place, what is needed from those representing authority is that they are clear and unequivocal in acknowledging it.
A sincere expression of regret is of immense value.
Such a response may not be able to undo a wrong. However, it does improve the possibility of healing.
The clear apology from the secretary of state concerning the Claudy investigation is to be welcomed. Similar words from the prime minister would also be helpful.
In the wake of the failings outlined in the ombudsman's report, it is vital that we do not overlook something important.
The greatest responsibility in this tragic event – and the greatest injustice – lies squarely with those who misguidedly believed it acceptable to plant three bombs indiscriminately in a small village, taking the lives of nine people as well as injuring many others.
Those who bear greatest responsibility for the injury of that day are those who carried out the bombings.
They must surely bear a heavy weight on their conscience.
My appeal to them is to make peace with their neighbour as well as with their Maker.
The fear is sometimes voiced that Claudy has become the forgotten atrocity of the Troubles.
This must not be allowed to happen.
I warmly welcome the news that the Historical Enquiries Team is now making contact with the families about investigating the circumstances more fully.
This is an intervention I strongly support and I look forward to seeing the fruits of a thorough investigation on their part.
The truth of what happened in Claudy in 1972 should have come out at that time. The truth was not revealed then, but it is important that it should come out now. Those who suffered from the events of that day and of subsequent days deserve no less.
Quite rightly, the families have long wanted to know what really happened on that fateful day.
Their search for the truth, at the same time as coming to terms with their personal loss, has undoubtedly been a painful and a lonely road.
The qualities of persistence and dignity shown by the families bring credit not only to themselves, but also serve well the memory of their loved ones.
As we seek to find a way forward together, let us not forget the families and people of Claudy.
• Ken Good is Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry & Raphoe
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Sunday 12 February 2012
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