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26 May 2009

The Community Relations Council (CRC) condemns the killing of community worker Kevin McDaid in Coleraine on Sunday and the attack on his wife and neighbours.

Responding to the murder of Kevin McDaid on behalf of the Council Duncan Morrow, CRC Chief Executive, said:

“The killing of Kevin McDaid is a chilling example of the lethal consequences of sectarian hatred and easy excuses for violence and must be utterly condemned.  It is another appalling chapter in the history of sectarianism and a reminder of how easily sectarian hostility turns into personal, family and community tragedy.  Our thoughts are with the family of the bereaved and injured at this desolate time.

In March, political and community leaders showed impressive solidarity in the face of  the murders of security force personnel by dissident republicans.  This murder is a further stark reminder that despite recent political progress we still have a long way to go in rooting out the casual sectarianism from which this violence arises. Politicians and communities need to continue to show cross-community solidarity in condemning this reversion to our violent past. It needs to be made clear that only by working together through peaceful means can we create a better future.

Many efforts are being made to build bridges and create a society where sectarianism is an aberration not an excuse.   Clearly, the journey towards peace and partnership still has to be completed.  Kevin McDaid’s violent death is a terrible wake-up call for all those who think we have put sectarian violence behind us.”

For further information contact

Ray Mullan

CRC Director of Communications

Tel 9022 7500

Email: rmullan@nicrc.org.uk