Sir, - How will Omagh's dear people go on? Tortured by images of their loved ones' savage deaths, wrenched by their absence, anguished by the shattered lives of survivors, unable to relieve the pain of the injured, helpless when a loved one cannot manage because of lost sight, hearing or limb. How can they rebuild their lives? How much pain can be borne?
As a citizen of this State I feel very strongly that we have a collective duty to help those who have suffered because of violence in the North, not just this week or next but in the long winter and years to come. Our care must go beyond the words and actions to date, heartfelt and genuine though they are. As a nation we must never forget the horrors of the past 30 years.
As a health-care professional, may I suggest that our Government establish a permanent, purpose-built place of respite and care for the victims of Omagh and all the victims of the North and their carers. A holistic centre, providing the very best care - physical, medical, psychological and spiritual - could offer solace to the victims of violence on this island, honour the memory of the dead and the lives of the injured and help to ease the burden of the bereaved and suffering. Moreover, it would provide steadfast testimony that violence has no place on this island. It would be a symbol of unity, peace and love in the face of evil. It would be a project to a better future for all the people on this beautiful island. Its possibilities would be endless.
As a nation we are justly proud of our efforts to assist victims of famine, war and disaster all over the world. Let's do it now in our own country. - Yours, etc., Ciara Murray,
Farnogue Park, Wexford.