Deliver solutions on division: Ford

Northern Ireland cannot take its progress for granted, Justice Minister David Ford has said, reflecting on the G8 summit and the World Police and Fire Games. He praised the efforts of the organisers and condemned the public disorder which also occurred over the summer.

“There can be no excuses for attacking police officers, who for too many years have put themselves forward to protect our community,” he stated. “Northern Ireland has moved on and trouble-makers need to realise that fact. Actions by some cannot be used by others as an excuse for law-breaking.”

The Alliance Party leader added that political representatives have “an obvious role in showing mature leadership, talking through the difficult issues and coming up with solutions that can help deliver a truly shared future.” He concluded: “The progress made in many areas over recent years must be used as a solid foundation for moving ahead, not squandered over disputes where no-one wins.”