It is hard for us in the states to comprehend the level of hatred exposed in NI. All my friends were always my friends first and whatever else they were Catholic, Jewish, agnostic, Methodist, Baptist was (and still is) only a footnote to who they were. There is something seriously wrong with those in the North who seem determined to keep that hatred the only definition of who a person is alive. Considering the likes of Johnny Adair (even behind bars he probably has a strong influence) I cannot blame the IRA for not wanting to destroy their weapons at this moment. Given the regular attacks on Catholic homes and persons for whom the IRA has often been the ONLY protector, it would be suicidal.

What I REALLY can't understand is why the RUC is allowed to continue to pretend that they are a body commited to law and order. In the states such a police force would be disbanded and its members arrested for criminal action.

Wasn't William of Orange a DUTCHMAN?

I like Gerry Adams too, and ANYONE else who is willing to work for peace in NI