Politicisation of HM The Queen's visit regrettable -Allister
19 March 2008
“The politicisation of Her Majesty’s visit today by stage managing a simultaneous visit of Mary McAleese is regrettable. It is clear that the NIO and Dublin have collaborated to push forward the imagery of joint London/Dublin synergy.”
“I would like to know if the Northern Ireland Executive, and particularly the First Minister assented to this joint visit, not least since the DUP has boasted that through devolution, they have thwarted the drift towards joint authority manifestations.”
“As part of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland should be able to enjoy a Royal visit without any element of hijack from Dublin or peddling of joint symmetry"
"McAleese's audacious declaration that there will be no royal visit to Dublin till policing and justice is devolved is remarkable. The political meaning is clear and explains why republicans are so adamant on securing such devolution. Devolution of policing and justice for republicans means the end of British justice and British policing anywhere in Ireland. That is why McAleese said what she said today and that is why no unionist should rush into such devolution. When their goal of "Brits Out" of policing and justice has been achieved, then, they will they deign to permit Queen Elizabeth to visit. What a cheek!"
