Clearly stung by the criticism noted earlier, the NIO have issued another statement, atttributed to an unnamed NIO Spokesperson, on the latest UVF murder – one day after the supposed Minister, Lord Rooker, issued this statement. The BBC report appears to incorrectly attribute the new statement to Secretary of State, Peter Hain, but it just refers to a previous statement by Hain, from 1 August or, maybe, 29 July. More importantly, IMO, the NIO Spokesperson is now acknowledging that, after repeating Hain’s statement that the issue is gangsterism masqerading as loyalism,
“NIO officials continue to be in close contact with community leaders in loyalism to try to bring this ongoing violence to an end. Ministers also remain in close contact with PSNI and security officials.”
A question for the NIO spokesperson –
Who are these community leaders in loyalism that NIO officials are in close contact with?.. and, indeed, who are the leaders in the gangsterism masquerading as loyalism? i.e. the people the Secretary of State Peter Hain holds responsible for the violence.. just to clarify the situation, you understand.
Full text of latest NIO statement –
Tuesday 16 August 2005
NIO condemns loyalist violenceThe Northern Ireland Office has condemned the ongoing murders and violent attacks. An NIO spokesperson said: “The Secretary of State has made clear from the outset of this outbreak of violent killing that this is gangsterism masquerading as loyalism.
“What is important at this time is to bring an end to this violence and intimidation through effective policing and the PSNI deserve the support of the whole community, especially in loyalist areas at this time.
“The PSNI have already arrested 20 people, charged ten of those arrested and conducted over 90 searches. Anyone with information about any violent attacks or murders should make it known to the Police immediately.
“NIO officials continue to be in close contact with community leaders in loyalism to try to bring this ongoing violence to an end. Ministers also remain in close contact with PSNI and security officials.”