Statement by Cardinal Brady in response to confirmation of UDA decommissioning

06 Jan 2010

PRESSRELEASE
6 January 2010

Statement by Cardinal Brady in response to confirmation of UDA decommissioning

I welcome the confirmation today by General John De Chastelain that the Ulster Defence Association (UDA) has decommissioned the weapons under its control. I commend all those who took risks to bring about this vital step on the road to a lasting peace.

Our once divided and violent society has come a long way in recent years. I hope today’s news will spur us all on to work together to address the social and economic needs of our society, especially of those communities most disadvantaged by years of violence.

My first thoughts however are for those for whom the news of UDA decommissioning will evoke painful memories and raise many unanswered questions about the violence of the past. They are uppermost in my prayers today.

ENDS

Further information
Martin Long, Catholic Communications Office, +353 (0) 861727678