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Drumcree Violence Continues

Violent incidents have again been reported on Tuesday night at Drumcree following the funeral of the three Quinn brothers who were buried yesterday in Rasharkin, County Antrim. According to the RUC 14 blast bombs were thrown at RUC lines and gas cylinders were exploded close to the main security barricade. Shots were also fired by loyalists in Hilltown. Meanwhile a number of Orange chaplains have released a statement condemning the violence of the past week and the murder of three members of the Quinn family. Despite the clearly sectarian motive for the petrol bombing of the Quinn family Paisley and orangemen at Drumcree continue to deny any link between their protests and the deaths. Paisley in particular has issued appalling statements over the past days suggesting that drugs may have played a role in the murder It is apparent that the split in the Orange Order is now widening. The Spirit of Drumcree group is intent on using the issue of a parade on the Garvaghy Rd to damage the Belfast Agreement. At this stage it is unclear whether the proximity talks which adjourned at the weekend will be reconvened. No-one seriously believes however that there is any possibility of an Orange parade on the Garvaghy Rd in 1998.

Outside of Portadown attacks have continued on Catholic homes and Orange halls. Dissident republican splinter groups are believed to be responsible for a number of failed car bombings in the past few days.

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Ireland News Update Thursday 23rd July 1998	If you came directly to this page use this button to reach the Weekly Ireland News Update Service
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