Lockerbie release decision

Madam, – Acts of terrorism happen both with and without conscious intent

Madam, – Acts of terrorism happen both with and without conscious intent. The Lockerbie bomb seems to have been intended as an act of terrorism. Currently, there are many people in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan who experience the actions of the US and its allies as acts of terrorism. It is less the intent behind an action – and more how it is witnessed, experienced and felt by those on the receiving end that makes for an act of terrorism. The US in particular seems to be claiming the high moral ground in its protests against the recent release of Abdel Basset al-Megrahi.

How can it feel in a position to do so after eight years of blatant disregard for human rights under the Bush-Cheney axis? It would serve better for peace in our world if they learned from Scotland’s deeply human gesture and made some serious efforts of their own towards atonement and reconciliation with those affected by their acts of terrorism. – Yours, etc,

BRENDAN MacQUILLAN,

Mansfieldstown,

Castlebellingham,

Co Louth.