The Church of Ireland
Press Release

Statement by Archbishop Eames

"I am fully aware of the depth of feeling on both sides of the Garvaghy Road dispute and how those feelings are affecting life in Portadown at this time. There are those who will want to use those emotions as some sort of justification for violence and intimidation when as is so often the case the innocent will suffer. Any confrontation in Northern Ireland contains the danger and potential for violence. I appeal to all involved in this dispute to avoid words or actions which would give any individual or group an excuse for violence.

To those who may be planning acts of violence this weekend or in the days ahead: in God's name keep out of this dispute and allow reason and discussion to find a way forward. Listen to the appeals of the leaders of the Orange Order and do nothing to make this situation worse or the job of the RUC more difficult."