Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)

I am pleased to have the opportunity to make a brief contribution to this discussion. What was different about the murder of Robert McCartney? Why is this crime on everybody's lips? There have been many murders perpetrated by all sides. There have been many victims and the devastation of their families and friends was no less than that of the McCartneys.

Certainly, the fact that the murder occurred directly after the Northern Bank robbery had an impact. The utter viciousness of the crime coupled with the intimidation and bullying of witnesses were critical. However, the courage of Robert McCartney's family, who faced down that intimidation and who were supported by the local community, has brought us to this point tonight. We could have talked ourselves hoarse condemning the murder and there could have been reams of newsprint condemning the awful act but they would not have mattered. What mattered was that friends, neighbours and other decent people from the area supported the family. Ultimately, the community shouted "Stop". It took people power to turn the tide and to seek justice and truth.

I listened to Robert McCartney's aunt on the radio programme "News at One" two weeks ago and was riveted by what she said. She spoke the simple truth without spin. She described life as it is and Robert's death as it was. She forced all of us to confront the horror of the situation. I welcome the statement by Gerry Kelly this afternoon, echoed by Deputy Ó Caoláin this evening, that Sinn Féin is behind people who are prepared to come forward and give evidence about the murder.

It was suggested initially that this could undermine the peace process. I disagree. I believe it will move it forward. Peace is more than the absence of war. It means that communities and individuals are free from intimidation, regardless of where it originates. Robert McCartney's murder requires us to confront that truth. Watching the participants in the peace process over many years, in which many people were involved, I often thought very few women were involved. In terms of conflict resolution, women often have a different perspective, not better or worse, just different. It has taken the women of the McCartney family to make us confront the truth about intimidation and fear in communities. That recognition is a significant step in moving the peace process forward.

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