Reconciliation cannot be a one-way process, Martin McGuinness says in appeal for ‘mature leadership’ from unionism

A GENUINE PROCESS of reconciliation and healing requires more involvement for political unionism, Martin McGuinness MLA said at the launch of a Sinn Féin policy document on reconciliation in Belfast on Wednesday morning.

Other speakers at the event included the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Chief of Staff and Strategy, Canon David Porter, who was previously Director of Reconciliation.

The launch at Clifton House of A Pathway to a Better Future was chaired by Sinn Féin TD Kathleen Funchion, who is also Chair of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.

The document was formally launched by Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney.

Martin McGuinness said:

“Republicans have rightly embraced the challenge of reconciliation.

“Sinn Féin have demonstrated our commitment to this process through a number of public initiatives which at times have also presented challenges for republicans.

“But in order for that process to be successful, for our people to be truly reconciled, there needs to be a reciprocation of our efforts – this cannot be a one-way process.”

The Foyle MLA also said unionists must respect the Irish language and identity:

“There needs to be respect for all the traditions on this island, for all narratives. The Irish language, Irish identity, culture and aspiration is as valid as any other and needs to be respected as such.

“That will require mature leadership from political unionism because we alone cannot deliver reconciliation.

“A genuine reconciliation process must seek to create common ground where the collective focus is to build for the future.

“Sinn Féin will continue to offer positive leadership and we will continue to pursue the national reconciliation of our people.”