Paisley objects to peace rally move

The DUP leader, the Rev Ian Paisley, yesterday objected to a decision to adjourn early a session of the Northern Ireland Forum…

The DUP leader, the Rev Ian Paisley, yesterday objected to a decision to adjourn early a session of the Northern Ireland Forum to allow members to attend a peace rally organised by the Northern Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

Dr Paisley said he did not support the peace rally because it was in support of the peace process, to which he was opposed. He also claimed that a member of his party, the Rev Willie McCrea, had come under a "savage attack by the paramilitaries" during the talks this week.

The DUP leader criticised the ICTU for supporting the Anglo-Irish Agreement, the Downing Street Declaration and the Framework Documents. The Forum chairman, Mr John Gorman, said members could choose for themselves if they wished to attend the rally.