The Bishop of Derry says he deeply regrets that one of last night’s bonfires included a banner referring to Constable Ronan Kerr who was murdered 10 years ago.
Bishop Donal Mc Keown says such an action is highly offensive to the family of Constable Kerr, and an affront to many both in the local community and further afield.
He says every society needs an accountable police service, and encourages people to work together so that our police service is representative of the community it serves.
Statement in full –
Bishop Donal McKeown’s comment on the burning of a banner on a bonefire on 15th August 2021
I am grateful that our community has experienced a relatively peaceful summer. That is in no small measure thanks to the dedication of many generous people who have promoted dialogue and organised cultural events.
I deeply regret that one of last night’s bonfires included a banner referring to Constable Ronan Kerr who was murdered 10 years ago. Such an action is highly offensive to the family of Constable Kerr and an affront to many both in the local community and further afield.
Every society needs an accountable police service. I encourage everyone to work together so that our police service is representative of the community it serves.
Bishop Donal McKeown
Bishop of Derry
16th August 2021
