Response by BHG to UVF Declaration, published in the Belfast Telegraph, 10 May 2007.

The Belfast Humanist Group welcomes the declaration by the UVF that it is renouncing violence and laying down its arms, in recognition of the cessation of political conflict here. Like all law-abiding citizens who desire to see real democracy in N Ireland, we welcome any reduction in such anti-democratic practices.

Following the similar declaration by the IRA and the decision of Sinn Fein to participate in policing, the UVF declaration represents one more small, belated step towards the creation of a peaceful, prosperous and democratic society here. The UVF claimed to be defending N Ireland and therefore it should now be committed to the creation of a peaceful, democratic society, free from all paramilitary activity.

Because we do not believe in life after death, Humanists regard murder as a truly heinous crime. The victim, whether civilian, policeman or soldier, has lost their life forever and the loss to the bereaved family and friends can never be undone. To the thousands of people on both sides whose lives were smashed by paramilitary violence we extend our sympathy and condolences.

Tribal divisions and ancient grievances have been the source of the violence. Sectarian attitudes have contaminated much of social life and still cause divisions in sport, housing, public celebrations and education. We think that education plays a key role and hope that the expensive, divisive folly of segregated schools will be one of the first issues to be addressed by the new Assembly. Our education system should foster social harmony, not reinforce social division.

The end of violence is the first step towards the creation of a better future for our children. If all the citizens here work together to build a just and harmonious society, we can all look forward to a future N Ireland which is less sectarian and backward-looking, and more secular, tolerant, peaceful and prosperous.

L Reid

Belfast Humanist Group

www.belfast.humanists.net