Community Relations Council

• Jobs
• Press Releases
• News
• Links
• Speeches
• Contact
• Council Minutes

20 September 2010

The attack on the Rasharkin home of the family of footballer Chris Baird has been condemned by the Community Relations Council (CRC).

Duncan Morrow,CRC Chief Executive, said:

‘The attack on Chris Baird’s home is yet another piece of evidence that sectarianism is tragically alive and kicking in parts of Northern Ireland.  This is far from the first attack on homes and property in Rasharkin and the challenge of building a shared society is laid bare by this experience.

The attack contrasts sharply with the investment which CRC has made in football to enable a real climate of football for all. It is vital that we commit to resolving all of our difficulties peacefully, building a culture of diverse, open and shared public space and investing in a shared and better future.

The attacks make clear once again- if this is ever necessary- that sectarianism has not been eliminated. It is vital that these issues are at the forefront of politics and public policy if there is to be real change.

The Cohesion, Sharing and Integration policy, currently out for public consultation, needs to be improved to ensure concerted priority for this work, both directly in Rasharkin and to prevent further violence.’

For further information contact

Ray Mullan

Tel 90-227500

Email rmullan@nicrc.org.uk