Another sop to IRA - Sinn Fein
13 December 2012
Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister
"While the Stormont Executive will officially highlight various anniversaries - including the 1916 Easter Uprising - in this decade of anniversaries, it will not include the centenary of the formation of the RUC!
"This appalling sop to IRA/Sinn Fein has been confirmed in an Assembly answer to me by the DETI Minister, Arlene Foster, who along with convicted terrorist, Minister Cullen, has oversight of the decade of anniversaries.
Once more, it seems the DUP has rolled over to Sinn Fein's insistence that the RUC centenary would not be highlighted by the Executive - and, then, they wonder why there is a growing disconnect between unionist grassroots and Stormont!Saying they will support organisations wanting to mark such anniversaries means nothing.
"This joint DUP/Sinn Fein decision is a calculated slight on the bravery, service and sacrifice of the gallant RUC, which I repudiate and deplore. It is appalling that the DUP/Sinn Fein junta will highlight the 1916 rebellion, but ignore the formation of the RUC."
Mr Allister's Q & A
Question:
To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment why there has been no mention of celebrating the centenary of the formation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary George Cross in the decade of anniversaries proposals.
Answer:
The Executive agreed that it was appropriate and necessary to set an inclusive tone to examining major centenaries over the decade 2012-22.
The intention is not that the Executive will organise events to mark every anniversary but will take a lead by setting the tone and providing a supportive environment for the many organisations who will celebrate these anniversaries.
The key anniversaries that have been highlighted by the Executive are the signing of the Ulster Covenant, World War 1/Battle of the Somme, the rise of the Labour Movement, Easter Rising, universal male and limited women’s suffrage and the Partition of Ireland.
These events influenced or were the direct cause of many developments of which the formation of the RUC, following Partition, is one and therefore the Executive’s approach to commemoration in support of those organisations who wish to mark such anniversaries would apply.
