South and East Belfast Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Sinn Féin welcome launch of 'Belfast Reconciliation Network'

Published: 16 May, 2007

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey and East Belfast Sinn Féin representative Niall Ó Donnghaile have praised the ongoing work being carried out by the Belfast Reconciliation Network in promoting better community relations and addressing the legacy of the conflict. Mr Maskey and Mr Ó Donnghaile were speaking after attending the official launch of the Network and its work plan this morning in Belfast's Radisson Hotel.


Mr Maskey said,

"The Belfast Reconciliation Network (BRN) was established in 2001 at the height of inter community tensions, tensions which affected both East and South Belfast at varying times. It is a tribute to those involved that the BRN has been able to bring together practitioners and grassroots organisations from North, South, East and West Belfast; all of whom have a long standing history in conflict transformation.


Mr Ó Donnghaile said,

"The community in East Belfast, in particular, has suffered greatly through interface violence in recent years. I would therefore commend the work of the BRN. Although this group will focus its work primarily in what are regarded as nationalist areas there is already positive co-operation with similar groups working within unionist areas; contact which will go a long way towards improving and developing the whole community".

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