Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Presbyterian Moderator meets Sinn Fein and GAA over sectarianism

The Presbyterian Moderator and the leader of Sinn Fein have agreed renewed efforts are needed to tackle sectarianism in Northern Ireland.  

Dr Norman Hamilton (pictured) met with Gerry Adams at the party's headquarters on the Falls Road in Belfast this week to discuss a range of issues.  

Fresh from a meeting with the GAA the day before, which incidentally was the first ever meeting between that organisation and a Presbyterian Moderator, Dr Hamilton said, “Sectarianism must be confronted,” and that it was “important when there is a sectarian issue that comes from one side that that side acknowledges it and we do our best to say that is not what we want.” 

“It was a sturdy and robust meeting.  Obviously we think very differently about certain things, but it was a very useful and good natured meeting.  It is imperative that we are a bit more proactive on both sides.” 

Agreeing that sectarianism is a problem, Mr Adams said, “I think one of the ways to tackle sectarianism is to be anti-sectarian and to lead by example.  Sinn Fein's perception of all of this is that sectarianism was a means of control, of keeping Catholics in their place and keeping Protestants in their place also.” 

“In the middle of all that, you have to deal with both ignorance and intolerance.” 

Dr Hamilton also confirmed that he has agreed to meet more regularly with political parties from both sides of the community from now on.  

Both leaders also confirmed that while the parades issue was not discussed that it would be discussed at future meetings.

SIC: CIN/IE