Allister writes to Paisley over Enniskillen tribute
01 October 2007
Statement by Jim Allister MEP
"Following the revelation that the Fire Service has removed a photographic tribute to firefighters who helped in the aftermath of the IRA's mass murder in Enniskillen in 1987, I am writing to the First Minister calling for action to withdraw any so called "equality guidance" under which such a disgraceful decision could be taken.
Since OFMDFM has responsibility for "equality issues", as well as victims, it is up to Ian Paisley to act to ensure such decisions cannot be taken under the guise of any equality agenda for which his department has ultimate responsibility. There really isn't much point in him having executive responsibility for equality issues if he can't speedily right this insulting wrong. He can't hide behind the Equality Commission because a review of their guidance can be initiated. Of course to act, given the nature of his joint office, he is beholden to Martin McGuinness agreeing, which is the ultimate disgusting irony, given his organisation's complicity in Enniskillen."
