Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, David Andrews TD,on First Anniversary of Omagh Bombing
Last year, the appalling death and suffering caused by the bombing of Omagh evoked horror, outrage and deep sympathy throughout these islands and across the world. The images we saw and the personal histories we have heard all underscore the extent of the human tragedy that occurred. We must never forget the twenty-nine who died, nor the pain of the injured or the grief of the bereaved, whether in and around Omagh itself, in Buncrana, or in Spain. It is right that the anniversary be solemnly marked, and that we now remember these, and all other victims of violence, at what is a specially difficult time for those involved.
For many, there are continuing wounds, both physical and psychological, which will never fully heal. But Omagh and its people have stood firm and stood together. Omagh has become a byword for fortitude, resilience and a spirit of community. The efforts of all who have dedicated themselves to the work of healing and rebuilding has been inspirational.
Unrelenting efforts to bring the perpetrators of this atrocity to justice are continuing both North and South, and will not cease.
It is the duty of the Irish and British Governments and of the political parties to continue to strive for lasting peace and reconciliation, so that never again will political violence bring heartbreak and destruction. We should all rededicate ourselves to the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and must in the forthcoming weeks renew our efforts to overcoming the remaining obstacles to its success.
