Generation misled on the forces of collusion

THE much publicised report from the North’s police ombudsman Nuala O’Loan on collusion between British forces, including the police, and unionist paramilitaries has awoken many in this State to the reality that was the nationalist nightmare for decades.

The truth has eventually leaked out — like blood from underneath a locked door. During the dark and turbulent years when ‘that troublesome Northern tribe’ looked South seeking help, they were met largely with either cold indifference or naked hostility.

Collusion was after all an illusion — a figment of their imagination or simply republican propaganda. Heads remained firmly in the sand.

Sections of the Southern political and media establishment stand accused. I wonder if they will now be courageous enough to take responsibility for the distorted picture that was sold to an entire generation in this state.

Will they now be prepared to show some understanding as to why many in the nationalist community were reluctant to join the police or give their support to the forces of ‘law and order?’

Fionntan Ó Suilleabháin

Uí Chonchubhaír

Sraid Hardwicke

Baile Átha Cliath 1