NEWS LETTER PLATFORM ARTICLES
In the Belfast News Letter on 16-02-05 Canon Lewis, Chairman, Legislation & Politics Committee (NI), wrote the following PLATFORM article:
Letting political values erode can be expensive
The Northern Bank robbery of December 20 has put the focus of media attention on the IRA and Sinn Fein. The robbery was shocking in its audacity, repulsive in its criminality, and far-reaching in its political consequences. Intentionally, or otherwise, it has put Sinn Fein under the microscope.
People are asking, 'Are Sinn Fein democrats or not?' 'Are they committed to "exclusively democratic and peaceful means" of operating, to which they signed up in the Belfast Agreement?' 'Are they prepared to create a law-abiding and secure society for everyone?' 'Are they prepared to take their place equally alongside the other political parties which are democratic?'
The flow of media information linking the IRA and Sinn Fein to the robbery is huge. The only dissenting voices are those groups themselves.
However, the very large majority of people in Ireland accept the judgement of the Prime Minister and Taoiseach, the Chief Constable and Garda Commissioner, and the Independent Monitoring Commission, in identifying the organisations responsible. And there is little likelihood that this is going to change.
The people and their leaders are saying, 'We are committed to living in a society in which there is respect for the rule of law, and in which criminal conduct will be dealt with firmly'.
Since 1998, politics in Northern Ireland has been set on the shifting sands of pragmatism and expediency. 'Constructive ambiguity' and 'fudge' - not clarity and transparency - have been words used in relation to the euphemistically named 'peace process'. Violence, or the threat of violence, has had the potential to exact concessions from governments, but still leave peace and stability out of reach. Consequently, the crucial place of 'values' in politics has been chronically eroded.
After seven years, values and ethics have been dramatically catapulted to the forefront of politics on this island. And all because of the Northern Bank robbery!
Telling the truth is important. Planning and engaging in crime is wrong. Exclusive commitment to democracy is the only basis for politics. Respect for the law is fundamental to good order and the security of the individual and society. An agreed understanding between all political parties on the nature and purpose of politics is essential.
I write this as one who is very concerned about the revelations surrounding the Northern Bank robbery. Ironically, however, I am thankful because the robbery has made many people more vigilant to protect the democracy and freedom which we enjoy.
At the end of the day, thankfully, politics, politicians and political parties will not have the last word. The last word will be with Jesus - Prince of peace, Lord of truth, King of righteousness - the sovereign ruler of every worldly state! Politicians would do well to heed words in the Book Revelation. They challenge everyone to make urgent preparations now for the good and just rule of Jesus.
"The Kingdoms of this world have become the Kingdom of our Lord and his Christ, and he shall reign for ever and ever."
It is in the light of the rule of Jesus that we draw up our political plans. The world is God's. We are simply stewards of his precious gift.