Reverend Karen Sethuraman:

I have highlighted this particular point as it is important to me for two reasons. First, my work as a minister centres on peace and reconciliation. I have the privilege of working with people from all backgrounds on this island, across the UK and further afield. Second, I believe it is critical that conversations regarding the future of Ireland extend beyond the political arena.

During our previous discussion, I argued for a citizens' assembly, as I am passionate that our conversations are not solely politically-led, but also extend to being people-led. When one gets to the core of what matters most to people, it is not their political stance. It is the bread and butter issues that affect all of us, concerning education, housing, healthcare, the economy and so forth. Therefore, I am sure the Chairman and members can understand my disappointment at some comments made to my colleague, Mr. Niall Murphy, at the previous committee meeting. One member, in an attempt to link us to a political party, publicly stated: "If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it is a duck". I understand political opposition, but I kindly ask that this is not projected onto those of us who are not political.

The work of peace and reconciliation calls us to have the courage to extend beyond our own boundaries and to step into all places and spaces. I was born into a unionist family. My family, friends and colleagues are unionists. I am currently involved in various projects, which include the Catholic and Protestant divide, gender equality, racism, LGBT+ rights and inter-faith work. I write a column for Belfast Media Group. I am a champion of progressive faith and public theology simply because I believe in equality, inclusion and creating a fair society for all. I have had the privilege of serving as chaplain to two Lord Mayors of Belfast. It was an honour to champion our city. My reason for sharing this is that peace and reconciliation are best exampled when people from very different backgrounds not only work together, but form friendships. I assure the committee that my work is not politically motivated or linked to any political party. This is important to me.

Previously, I shared my vision of creating a nation of neighbours based on the ancient question: who is my neighbour? This question is foundational to my work, as I believe it has the potential to help provide a unifying framework to build a nation of neighbours. Thanks to the Anabaptist Mennonite Trust I have been accepted to begin a PhD this coming autumn on this very theme from a faith and theological perspective. This is important to me because I am your neighbour and you are mine. It does not matter what background we are from – we must always find ways to work and partner together, creating a better place to live. Even though it was disappointing to hear those comments, I was overwhelmed by the response and support for myself and the work of Ireland’s Future. We are not part of any political party. Those of us who are entrusted with a place of leadership have the responsibility to move away from name calling, labelling and any type of pigeon-holing. Let us learn to lead well and by example. Let us together, regardless of our background, put our shoulders to the wheel of peace and reconciliation and concentrate on the main thing, which is creating a better home and future for all of us.

In conclusion, I extend the hand of friendship and welcome to the Chairman and all the members. I ask them to come to Belfast and spend time with us, to hear our stories and about the work in which we are involved.