Diocesan News
Bishop condemns bomb attack as ‘reckless’
The following statement by the Rt Rev Ken Good, Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, was issued on Sunday (20th January):
Last night’s bomb attack in the centre of Londonderry was an act of utter recklessness which showed a callous disregard for the lives and safety of local citizens and visitors alike.
It defies belief that anyone would place a bomb on a city–centre street, early on a Saturday evening, so close to people’s homes, churches, an hotel, sheltered accommodation, nearby pubs and a large car park. St Columb’s Cathedral and St Augustine’s Church – where a group of young people had been meeting yesterday evening – have both had to cancel their Sunday morning services while the Police carry out a follow–up security operation. I am thankful to all our emergency services for the courageous way in which they responded to the initial explosion and to the subsequent alert.
I am extremely thankful that no one was injured – or worse – as a result of last night’s explosion.
The people responsible for the attack must be reminded that their methods have been rejected not only by the vast majority of people in this community but by an overwhelming majority of people on this island.
The attack was wrong. It is indefensible. It should never be repeated. The time has long since passed when such violence should have been consigned to history.
I urge anyone with information about the bombing to share it with the Police.
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Derry & Raphoe
Mr Paul McFadden
028 7126 2440
07525 826290
press@derryandraphoe.org