SF have failed to accept the deep hurt caused by the PIRA campaign

Here we are in 2017, 19 years since the so called Good Friday agreement that was supposed to have saved us all and rid Northern Ireland of terrorist violence, yet so much intolerance, sectarianism and hate still exists.

The threat from violent dissident republicans has intensified as a future generation of republican youth sing vile sectarian songs in GAA clubs.

Northern Ireland will never move on until those who were involved in terrorism admit and accept that there never was any justification to maim and kill in the name of any political cause.

Sinn Fein through their actions and glorification have bred another generation of anti-Protestant pro militant republicans who are brought up to hate and loathe anything protestant or British.

Of course, dissident republicans fail to see the error of their ways, Sinn Fein’s condemnation of modern day terrorism falls on deaf ears when they refuse to accept responsibility for dividing our society and deepening mistrust between neighbours.

It’s time for Sinn Fein to apologise on behalf of their cohorts in the IRA, condemn all acts of political violence, historic and modern, tell future generations it was wrong then and is wrong now.

Let them show that they truly believe in justice, equality and respect because at the moment, those words sound like opportunist buzz words from a party that has this week handed control of Northern Ireland back to Westminster.

Is it the case that Sinn Fein have reached the end of the political road? The peace project is over? What’s next?

A return to violence, surely not.

Sinn Fein have failed to accept the deep hurt caused by the PIRA campaign, I hope they reflect and realise that true reconciliation will be brought about by their apology and acceptance of guilt.

As the SHA legacy consultation begins society has a chance to get it right, a chance for those who inflicted the pain to recognise the error of their wicked deeds.

Allowing us to move forward in a cohesive, coherent manner, ensuring that the welfare of all victims are put to the fore.

It’s time to get it right.

William Frazer, Co Armagh