PSNI Chief Constable shares platform with Martin McGuinness

THE bold move by Féile an Phobail to invite PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton to share a platform with Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness on the theme 'Will the questions of the past ever be answered?' generated plenty of debate in itself and lead to speculation that the meeting might be disrupted by protesters.

Numerous groups and individuals did stage a noisy but peaceful protest on the Falls Road, outside the college gates.

Inside, a lively debate, chaired by broadcaster and commentator Brian Rowan, took place in the jam-packed St Mary's auditorium.

Both speakers faced tough questioning and both speakers stating their positions emphatically.

Hamilton, who was being quizzed about the RUC's and PSNI's past records, especially on collusion and the lack of progress on historical enquiries as well as stalling inquests, defended his force as best he could but with questions coming from Seamus Finucane – brother of murdered solicitor Pat – and Mark Thompson of Relatives for Justice he was having a difficult time.

Having said that, he did come into west Belfast and sat with Martin McGuinness and faced an audience that he knew would be tough.

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