Bishops discussed Justice and Peace in Northern Ireland at their
Spring 2017 General Meeting which concluded this afternoon in Columba
Centre, Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth.
Bishops offered their congratulations to the 90 new members of the
Northern Ireland Assembly following their election on 2 March.
Bishops
discussed the election and its consequence for justice and peace in
Northern Ireland.
The Assembly’s new profile is different to that which
has gone before and this presents an opportunity to build new
relationships across our whole community while working for the common
good.
Bishops acknowledged the significant civic duty which now rests on
each new MLA as they embark upon their roles in an uncertain political
environment which includes protecting human life and dignity, supporting
marriage and family, Brexit, probity in public life, education,
migrants and refugees, and legacy issues.
Bishops urged all parties to avoid a vacuum and instability, and to
continue their negotiations in a spirit of generosity and positivity.
Bishops said, “It is in all our interest that a new executive is
established as soon as possible in order that it may serve peace,
economic stability and sustainable growth for the benefit of all in our
society.”