THE Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland spoke yesterday of the right to freedom of speech, which had been savagely attacked by the killers of solicitor Ms Rosemary Nelson.
Addressing 14 new barristers in the High Court, Sir Robert Carswell said such an occasion was normally associated with celebration, but he had to strike a sombre note.
"The murder of Rosemary Nelson, which appalled the whole community, is a reminder to us of the values which we must strive to maintain," said Sir Robert, who had condemned the killing in a brief statement on Tuesday.
He said Ms Nelson was a woman of strong mind and strong views which she did not hesitate to express.
"Those views were unpopular with many, some of whom expressed their hostility by taking her life in this atrocious fashion," said Sir Robert.
"It is difficult to find words adequate to express our shock and outrage.
"But words must be found to state publicly and unequivocally the need for society to adhere to one of its most fundamental beliefs, that of freedom of speech.
"It is essential that we should uphold the right and the freedom of every citizen to express views which others may dislike and to pursue within the law causes to which others take objection."