Focus must be on victims, not terrorists - Bell

12.00.00am GMT Wed 2nd Nov 2005

Alliance Deputy Leader and Victims' Spokesperson Eileen Bell has responded to calls by the DUP in North Antrim reported in the Irish for the release of the Poyntzpass killers by saying that the focus of Government proposals must be victims, not terrorists.

The North Down MLA stated: "A week ago a Victims' Commissioner was put in post with DUP approval as a sop to Unionists. But now, it seems it is more important for DUP Officers in their Party Leader's own constituency to secure the release of murderers. Their focus should be on the rights and needs of victims, including the families of those killed at Poyntzpass.

"This is proof that the victims issue is simply being abused as part of a grubby sectarian carve-up catering solely for the political extremes.

"A process involving only the political extremes was tried and failed last year. It is time for an inclusive process making a priority of those who suffered during the conflict, and focusing on integration rather than artificial, socially-engineered division."

ENDS