LOYALIST COMMISSION STATEMENT
The Loyalist Commission has for a period of time been analysing republican tactics post the Provisional IRA ceasefire and monitoring the recent manifestation of this in interface areas.
It is evident the PIRA ceasefire is no longer intact, and that a dangerous policy of systematic republican agitation and aggression, aimed at Protestant communities living in interface areas throughout Northern Ireland, is being organised.
This policy is to be condemned because of the continued alienation and hurt it causes to our community and the damage it does to the prospect of improved relations across the community divide.
Republican incursions into loyalist communities throughout Northern Ireland have resulted in a number of people being shot and reached a climax last week when Sinn Fein/IRA in east Belfast shot five Protestants during sustained and orchestrated attacks.
Such attacks have caused loyalist paramilitaries to defend their communities and then only after considerable restraint in the face of republican provocation. There are no indications that republican aggression will diminish, rather experience shows they will simply broaden the violence to other areas.
In order to de-escalate the present crisis and with the clear objective of bringing about a reduction in tension, saving all communities from further suffering and injury, the Loyalist Commission offers the following for earnest consideration and agreement:
- Loyalist paramilitaries will not initiate any action against republican communities, reaffirming their policy of no first strike.
- Respect for both communities on interface areas is essential and all individuals must have safe and equal access to all facilities.
- The right of expression for British culture and unionist traditions is valued by loyalists and should be respected by republicans and accepted without unlawful protest.
- A mirrored security force presence should operate as necessary across the interface flashpoints so all areas are protected and policed equally. Emphasis should be put on community and local policing. Attacks on the PSNI and security forces should be halted by all concerned.
- All practical efforts will be made to ensure incidents don't occur along interfaces that could create tension between communities.
- On interface areas measures should be encouraged to ensure community contact is carried out in a open and honest manner, which demonstrates an effectiveness to prevent problems arising.
This genuine attempt to de-escalate the current situation will only work if there is a commitment by Sinn Fein/IRA to halt their present politically orchestrated violence and green propaganda towards the Protestant community, and a willingness from them to reduce the rising tension. The Loyalist Commission simply asserts the right of its people to remain British and live in peace.
We therefore call upon the Secretary of State, the First Minister, Deputy First Minister, political, Church and community leaders to immediate seek a republican reciprocation to make this initiative work.
This is an attempt by the Loyalist Commission to contribute positively to the peace, stability and well-being of all in society. Real peace requires more than hollow words. It has to be based on trust and sincerity and practised by all communities.