Violence needs political action - Ford

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 22nd Jul 2002

Alliance Leader David Ford has said that the weekend violence in North Belfast requires action on the political front as well as on the security front.

David Ford said:

"No doubt the weekend violence will be followed by calls for more action by the Police and Army. Clearly there needs to be firm action on the ground against those engaging in violence."

"But before politicians call for others to act they should consider their own responsibilities. Violence is happening because the Agreement is not being seen to meet the needs of ordinary people. Until Ministers can deliver the social and economic improvements that Northern Ireland needs they should resist the temptation to call for a security solution alone."

ENDS.