Northern Ireland’s First Minister and Deputy First Minister attended the first Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration in Belfast today.
Mr Trimble and Mr Durkan were at the Laganside venue to share with Belfast's small Jewish community in remembering the slaughter of millions in the Second World War and other conflicts.
Less than 200 invited guests were at the solemn event, among them Security Minister Ms Jane Kennedy represented the Westminster government and the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Mr Jim Rodgers. Belfast City Council was involved in the organisation.
Readers, who included the two ministers, read out the Statements of Commitment from the Stockholm Declaration of January 2000 and delivered short addresses before a commemorative bronze plaque was unveiled outside the Waterfront Hall.
Mr Trimble said he hoped the event would communicate the importance of learning the lessons of the Holocaust, especially for young people, while Mr Durkan drew parallels with the Northern Ireland troubles and said it underscored the need to promote a just and tolerant society.
There was also a selection of readings and poems as well as music featuring the Belfast Synagogue Choir.
Ms Kennedy said: "This commemoration is not just an opportunity to remember the victims of the Holocaust and other acts of inhumanity, but to learn from these horrendous crimes and ensure that they never happen again.
"It is almost 60 years since survivors of the death camps were freed. Many have now passed away and it is up to us and future generations to ensure that their horrific experience is never forgotten and never repeated."
PA