The North’s elections - Democracy in action

OVER the last few weeks and days, a process that shows that the terrorists and criminals styling themselves as dissident republicans have even less credibility than they imagine played out without a shot being fired or a blow being struck.

Talks have begun on the complexion of the next Northern Ireland Assembly and every voter in the North, no matter where their loyalties lie, had an opportunity to influence that outcome. Even in the lifetime of so many of those who voted last week that is an unimaginable advance and can be seen in its proper perspective when some politician or other reverts to the tribal abuse that would have won votes a decade or two ago — they are almost universally condemned.

Anyone who cares for this island must ensure the terror attacks predicted during the Queen’s visit do not come to pass and that those planning them are stopped.