A chara, - The Irish National Congress demonstration at the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the Orange Order in Dublin was staged for two reasons: to remind elected representatives of their responsibility to defend the right of Irish citizens to live free from sectarian harassment, as expressed in the Good Friday Agreement; and to make clear our view that for inclusivity and tolerance to flourish sectarianism must be faced down.
Derry Kelleher (June 16th) can rest assured that the INC is not only aware of the Orange Order's opposition to the Act of Union in 1801, but also of the reasons underlying that opposition. That opposition was based solely on concerns that any change in the political administration might threaten the power and privilege conferred on the Ascendancy by the brutal and sectarian repression of Ireland. He should also be aware that the only relationship that the Orange brethren have had with Irish Republicanism has been one of antagonism. The Order has consistently worked to frustrate the dream of uniting Irish people - of all religious persuasions and none - in a common Irish identity.
Mr Kelleher's reference to muddy thinking might better be applied to those who imagine the endorsement of sectarianism to be compatible with an Ireland reconciled and at peace. - Is mise,
Mary Lou McDonald, Cathaoirleach, Irish National Congress, PO Box 2814, Dublin 7.