The Church Of Ireland
Press Release

Extracts from the speech given by Archbishop Robin Eames at the Charter Day dinner in Queen's University, Belfast.

"While our society is preoccupied with political issues we must not be blind to the serious moral questions which lurk behind the headlines.

As we search for a just and peaceful society are we becoming a more caring and more compassionate community?

There are major moral questions when we see a health service which cannot provide beds for the most vulnerable.

We are developing as a major centre for electronics and technology but are we able to communicate more clearly across our own community divisions?

We welcome improved employment figures and investment but are we widening the gap between the rich and the poor?

We pray that widespread terrorism has ceased but are we now seeing the growth of a new culture of violence in which the elderly and the weak of society are at risk?

Is there an acceptable level of violence which the community tolerates because it docs not threaten the political peace process?

There are moral issues of immense importance facing Northern Ireland today which we cannot ignore if one day we not only want to enjoy a more just and peaceful society but also one which encompasses decency, charity and human understanding.

Progress towards political stability must never become an alternative to compassion, caring and support for the weak in our community."