Your Letters

PIPS’ invaluable work for families

Further to the articles and letters that have appeared in the North Belfast News this month I felt that I needed to put pen to paper to express my own feelings about the issue of PIPS and the work it does with families. PIPS first made contact with me on 16 July 2009, following the tragic death of my daughter Georgina, who passed away on 15 July 2009.  Since this time PIPS have offered counselling and support to me and...

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Differing takes on source of Meehan abuse allegation story

There is no doubt that sexual abuse allegations can cause great pain for all the people involved. As such it is usually best that these allegations are dealt with by professionals in an even handed and confidential manner. Unfortunately in recent times a prominent case has arisen in North  Belfast that has attracted a lot of attention. This case was reported widely in the Sunday Tribune by its journalist Suzanne Breen. In the North Belfast News 30th January edition, Martin Meehan...

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Basil McLaughlin

I was shocked to hear about Basil McLaughlin passing away. When Daily Ireland was in full swing he often popped in to offer a word of advice, but more often some quiet encouragement. I didn't really know until months into the project just how integral he was to the development of the Andytown News, and indeed the wider community. It took me even longer to realise that Teach Basil translated into Basil's House and that he was the Basil in...

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Images were sickening

I think most people who viewed the sickening images of a rabbit torn to shreds in the pages of the Andersonstown News a few weeks ago must seriously be wondering what type of a society we are living in?  Unfortunately for many people, the sight of a defenceless animal ripped to pieces by dogs is no longer a unique scenario in this city. In fact, the gormless ghouls who engage in this disgusting pastime tend to put it about a...

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Billy McKee stands over his story

In response to the letter from Henry McIlhone’s family, I wish to say the following: Firstly, I told the truth in my interview with the Andersonstown News concerning the death of their father. Concerning your friends (the HET), did they tell their side of the story – that I was the only witness (except your father’s murderers) to his death? Do you wish to believe the HET? If so, fair enough. But I met your mother and two of your...

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Not surprised at the Massacre walk-out

It should come as no great surprise, as reported in the Andersonstown News, that the Ballymurphy Massacre families felt the need to leave a meeting between themselves and the Victims’ Commissioners earlier than expected. They have said they feel "let down", "insulted" and "dismissed".  Obviously the Victims’ Commissioners in their infinite wisdom have sought advice and have now included pre-conditions when it comes to meeting families and discussing which routes they perceive as being wholly acceptable before they can fully...

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