Letter: Ulster's big problem: England's failure to comprehend the two traditions

Chris Jones
Friday 12 July 1996 18:02 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Sir: It is astonishing that the UK government has allowed the climb-down at Drumcree. It was the Chief constable who determined that the route was unsuitable and the same man that used force of arms to ensure its passage.

What conclusions can we draw? That violence and disorder are the way to be heard? If so why are Sinn Fein excluded from the talks while Mr Trimble and Mr Paisley brazenly marshal their forces? Worse still, a weak UK government is now nakedly exposed.

There is no peace process if the UK government doesn't have the will to face down the Unionist and Orange marchers. I am driven to the conclusion that there is no UK role in Northern Ireland. I do not pay taxes to escort Orangemen with paratroops. It is time to go. If the UK is not part of a solution we should leave and allow Irish men and women to determine their own fate.

CHRIS JONES

Liverpool

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in