Al, I would never delete posts because they were in support, or against, anyone. I only remove posts that violate the personal attack rule, or under a very limited set of circumstances which are well laid out.

As to the issue of Republicans, in the Irish sense, I am a firm supporter of the Republican/Nationalist cause. I have been unequivocal about this over the many years I have been here. I am also a veteran who understands armed conflict in very specific ways. It has given me a grim understanding of the horror of war, no matter how legitimate the cause. Armed conflict is often necessary, but should never be seen as a glorious event, and if one is being honest, should be seen as a complete human failure when it occurs. And then steps will be taken to end it. That is where I see the peoples of the North of Ireland. They want a different way, and they are now demonstrating that. That is what I support.

And I concur completely about TB, and to a lesser extent, Keith. One could enjoy the debate with them if they would but admit that the root of all this lies in the actions of the Crown. If they would simply admit that the treatment of the indigenous Irish peoples at the hands of the British government, and that same government turning a blind eye to the egregious discrimination against the Catholic population by the monied capitalists, is a shameful episode with repercussions that have lasted centuries and will resonate for years into the future, then decent discussion could occur.

Al, may I suggest you search for the thread on "Back Home In Derry", and read it through, then look at some of the linked threads at the top of the pages. You will then understand how long this has gone on here. You will also see how opinions have changed and enlightenment has occurred.

all the best,

Mick