Ulster's terrible burden as victims of the IRA are laid to rest
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A pall bearer fighting back tears yesterday at the funeral of David Johnston, one of the RUC constables murdered by the IRA.
Angie, the officer's widow, was flanked by her sons Louie, seven, and Joshua, three, as she led mourners at the service at St Columbus Church in Lisburn, Co Antrim.
Reserve Constable Johnston and his colleague, John Graham, were shot in Lurgan, Co Armagh, on Monday. A man arrested in connection with the killings remains in police custody.
A private service for the family and friends of PC Graham was held yesterday in his home town of Richill, Co Armagh.
Ronnie Flanagan, the RUC Chief Constable, and members of the force, joined friends and relatives of PC Johnston to hear the Presbyterian Moderator, Dr Sam Hutchinson, call on the Government to turn its back on attempts to bring the men of violence in from the cold.
He told the hundreds of mourners crammed into the church, and the many more standing outside: "With these murders Northern Ireland has passed a watershed, one of those critical points after which things can never be the same again. These killings were a slap in the face for so many people of goodwill who were trying to promote understanding and take risks for peace."
He said there were many who had doubts from the beginning "whether much would be achieved by talking to Sinn Fein. But they were honourable people who were willing to try, lest any chance for peace might be missed".
The policeman's sons paid their own tribute. Louie wrote: "I wish this had never happened to you. I wish it could be someone else. I am sorry that had happened to you. Greatest dad in the world. We love you."
Photograph Brian Little/PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments