The recent series of isolated attacks in Ireland have been shocking to say the least. It is almost beyond belief how far we have come since these types of attacks were typical occurances in the six counties - and indeed even here in the UK, particularly London.
The deaths of the two soldiers and subsequently that of the police officer by a second fringe-minority dissident group can only be described as tragic.
However, the true sign of the times is illustrated in Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness and the DUP's Peter Robinson standing shoulder to shoulder, united in the strength of their condemnation of these atrocities. McGuinness even went as far as to brand these renegade
elements of the Republican movement as "traitors to true island of Ireland". Let this put to bed any ambivalence that has been mooted with regard to Sinn Fein's commitment to the peace process.
These events have brought the operations of the devolved administration to the fore, and whilst our thoughts are with the victims' families it is also a good time to consider devolution's
domestic impact. One area where there is less of a bi-partisan consensus is the issue of academic selection.
I have been stunned by just how progressive Sinn Fein's Education Minister Catriona Ruane has been in her mission to drive out the decadent 11 Plus exam once and for all.
Aside from every argument that I would advance in line with my principled stance against selective education in general, people in the six counties are divided enough without this extending to children's education too.
There is much evidence to suggest that Catholic children in particular are being held back by the two-tier system. Although the DUP continue to steadfastly oppose Ms Ruane's admirable crusade, I hope that a consensus can in time be achieved that will see an equal and inspiring education for all children in the North of Ireland.
Post a Comment