Tolerance would have improved relations

IN the past 20 or so years Crumlin has seen a huge influx of new people, mainly from West Belfast. This has brought me some lovely neighbours but undeniably, it has completely changed the character of the village where the residents of both traditions lived happily and respectfully alongside one another.

The self styled ‘Residents’ Association’ have been speaking out against the 12th Parade, saying there has been no consultation with the community and that, as well as causing disruption, it will have a negative impact on community relations. They have put what they term a Public Notice through the doors of properties in Crumlin and held a public meeting

How different it might have been if the Residents’ Association had followed the example of Sinn Fein’s Martin McGuinness and exercised a more gracious leadership. If they had remembered, there is a much beleaguered indigenous Protestant community in Crumlin. If their ‘Public Notice’ had reminded people of this, and asked them to recognise this 12th of July day as part of the culture of their Protestant neighbours which takes place only once in every 14 years, and encouraged people to be tolerant and gracious in accepting it and, participants to behave likewise in holding it. Wouldn’t that, type of leadership have had a positive impact on community relations?

As a Protestant resident, I would like to have attended the public meeting but feel too intimidated to represent my views as I would fear repercussions.

Sadly for Crumlin it appears this ‘Public Notice’ and Tuesday’s meeting have already incited dissension and can do nothing but bring about the very negative impact which the Residents’ Association say they fear.

Concerned Resident of Crumlin