Republican News · Thursday 4 April 2002

Sinn Féin response to Sion Mills bomb attempt

West Tyrone Sinn Féin MP Pat Doherty has said that there is absolutely no support in the area for those behind the failed booby trap bomb attempt in Sion Mills on Thursday night, 28 March.

Speaking about the incident he said:

"This attack was not only a clear attempt to undermine the Good Friday Agreement but also Sinn Féin's role in the Peace Process. It is ironic that those responsible share this common objective with anti-Agreement unionists. Besides this objective, those responsible have no logical strategy towards achieving Irish unity.

"Sinn Féin does not pretend to have all the answers but we have formulated a comprehensive strategy and policies aimed at achieving Irish unity and are working day and daily to bring this objective about. The fact that the republican/nationalist people of West Tyrone and indeed the Six Counties overwhelmingly endorsed this strategy in last year's elections is a clear indication that those behind this attack have absolutely no support for their actions within the wider republican/nationalist community.

"The Peace Process has thrown up immense challenges and has meant unpalatable changes for everyone concerned, especially republicans. No one should underestimate how traumatic this has been for republicans, but the vast majority of republicans have embraced these challenges and changes with courage, determination with the vision of a better future for all the people on this island. What have those behind this attack got to offer?"