Terrorists Will Not Drag Northern Ireland Backwards – Armstrong

Ulster Unionist Party Deputy Leader Diana Armstrong MLA said:

“People across Northern Ireland will be shocked and horrified by the interception in County Monaghan on Wednesday, 22 July, of an extremely significant and potentially deadly explosive device. The alleged involvement of suspected New IRA members is a chilling reminder that a small and dangerous minority still wants to drag us back to the darkest days of our past. The people of Northern Ireland have rejected violence, rejected fear and rejected those who believe they can bomb their way to political influence.

“It is our sincere hope that those responsible will feel the full force of the law. There can be no place in modern society for the backward and dangerous ideology that continues to put lives at risk and seeks to drag our communities backwards.

“The Ulster Unionist Party wishes to place on record its sincere thanks and gratitude to An Garda Síochána for their professionalism and swift action in intercepting this vehicle before those involved were able to carry out their plans and endanger further lives.

“The people of Northern Ireland know all too well the devastating impact that terrorist attacks have on families and communities. Such acts tear communities apart, cause immense suffering, and result in the needless loss of life. They are and never have been justified in any circumstances.

“This latest incident is a further reminder of the continued threat posed by dissident republican terrorism. We must remain vigilant and resolute in confronting this threat, and we encourage the security forces on both sides of the border to continue their vital work in disrupting terrorist activity and bringing those responsible to justice.

“The overwhelming majority of people in Northern Ireland and the Republic support peace, democracy and the rule of law. Those who seek to undermine that progress will not succeed.”