Bertie Ahern on the continuing stand-off at Drumcree
Summary
Bertie Ehlers joins Anton Savage to discuss the renewed standoff on the Garvagh Road and the recent court ruling on the Orange Order march. Ehlers critiques the "unfortunate choreography" that led to the impasse and warns against the potential unraveling of the Good Friday Agreement institutions. He urges political leaders to prioritize local mediation over broader constitutional debates regarding a united Ireland, emphasizing the need to protect the progress made over the last thirty years.
Topics discussed
Introduction and context of the Garvagh Road standoff
Changes to the Orange Order march application
Parades Commission disputes and court proceedings
Critique of the timing and mediation failure
Sinn Fein leaders and the legality of the protest
Call for DUP and First Minister dialogue
Risks to political institutions and executive stability
Need for a final solution to the Garvagh Road issue
Impact of United Ireland discussions on local tensions
Gratitude for lack of violence and need for calm
Avoiding a return to hardline political rhetoric
Concerns for youth and the role of political leaders
Preserving the Good Friday Agreement and Stormont
Sign-off and program promotion
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