Londonderry politicians make heartfelt plea: put down your guns

The New Year message has been approved by the four main political parties here with the DUP, UUP, Sinn Fin and the SDLP all backing the call.

At a recent meeting in Stormont representatives from each of the parties affirmed their commitment to a unity of purpose to develop the city and region to its fullest potential.

Amongst those supporting the appeal were Gregory Campbell and William Hay of the DUP and Mary Hamilton and Willam Lamrock of the UUP.

In a joint statement released on Sunday they pledged: "In this new year of 2011 we as political representatives in this city will work towards a positive future for the shared interests, hopes and aspirations of the people of this our city.

"We will work with others to build a civic leadership that shifts us away from the divisions of the past towards a new era of, co-operation, mutual respect, hope and prosperity for all future generations.

"As part of this joint approach we will work collectively to address the needs of those most socially disadvantaged and suffering poverty within our city and region.

"As the political leaders of the city we see a future where there is a role for everyone who wants to make a positive contribution to making this a better place."

They went on to issue a direct appeal to the violent republicans who were responsible for a spate of bombing and shooting attacks in Londonderry in 2010.

"We are making a genuine and heartfelt appeal to those who use or support the use of violence to put away your weapons and join with us in making this a better city for all," the statement reads.

"This is not to oppose people's right to pursue different and diverse political goals however such goals must be achieved by peaceful and democratic means. Any attack against any part of the city and region or against any person or people in or of the area is an attack against the interests of everyone and against the future wellbeing of this City and its people.

"Irrespective of political differences, 2011 will be the year we commit to working together towards a new era of hope and prosperity for the future. We invite every citizen to work with us to create the conditions for a shared city life in this culturally vibrant city.

"May we take this opportunity to wish all people from all backgrounds, cultures and faiths a very happy and peaceful 2011," they concluded.

Also amongst the signatories were Martina Anderson, Mark Durkan, Pat Ramsey, Raymond Mc Cartney, Pl Callaghan and Colm Cavanagh.