Tolerance required as we move forward

The debate surrounding the new UDR memorial is largely academic as the decision to proceed was taken over a year ago after an Equality Impact Assessment and little or no opposition expressed by either Sinn Fein or SDLP on the Council.

It was particularly ironic last week when it was announced a new mural was to be revealed commemorating Bobby Sands to add to existing memorials to Hunger Strikers and IRA members already in Poleglass/Twinbrook areas, the logic expressed by some would be that only people who sympathised with the IRA could shop or use facilities in that area.

For many people the UDR played a significant role in saving life and protecting people and property from the brutality of terrorism. The fact many give their lives in that cause is worthy of remembrance and Lisburn as a Garrison town is an appropriate location.

It is not about disrespecting any community, it is showing respect to those who lost their lives saving the lives of others. A bit of tolerance is required as we move forward in this country, it has not been evident in some of the recent contributions to this column.

Edwin Poots

Assembly Candidate