A chara, - One basic principle which all of us should bear in mind is that whether we call ourselves loyalists or republicans depends on fortuitous circumstances. It is rare for anyone born into a family of one tradition to change sides. I was born into an ultra-republican family. My father died leading his men against a British barricade during the Rising of 1916. Anyone can guess my politics.
My maternal grandfather emigrated from Belfast to Philadelphia. He was such a "dyed in the wool" Orangeman that he was nicknamed "Orange Billy". Obviously I have a soft spot in my heart for Orangemen. "There, but for the grace of God, go I". How easily I could have been on the opposite side. It would be tragic if we were to revert to killing each other.
I suggest that all IRA weapons be handed to the Irish Government as all Orange weapons are handed to the British government. If circumstances arise when a neutral US authority considers that weapons are needed by the IRA to defend Northern nationalists, they will be returned to the IRA.
Presto! The decommissioning problem is solved. The new executive is set up and we all live happily ever after. - Is mise, Aodhogan O'Rahilly,
Belgard Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.