Overview

Welcome to the thirteenth issue of The Other View. The hallmark of this edition is the diversity of issues covered by various contributors. Issues range from; A green political analysis of and for Northern Ireland, Special Olympics, experiences of the Gulf War by a serving soldier of the RIR and a thought provoking article on the use of the term ‘Dissidents’.

Of course, The Other View also focuses on contentious issues which still impact our lives in the post-conflict era. Issues such as the future of unionism in a time of tranisition and matters such as infiltration and collusion and who, if anyone, is to blame. In this respect The Other View project is in-keeping with its ethos of not only addressing matters which lie at the heart of this conflict, but in seeking to find commonalities.

It is interesting to note a recent change of tact within republicanism. Republicans are now exploring ways and means to reach out to and understand their rivals in the unionist camps. It would not be unfair to claim that this magazine, initally seen by all involved as a risk, is now perceived as a unique and innovative instrument of conflict transformation and one which has helped the overall process of mediation.

Unionists, in turn, are more prepared to open and engage in new avenues of debate and discussion in regards, not only the future of unionism itself, but to explore models that will encompass a future which ensures everyone having a stakehold in this society. In fact, despite the confusion within unionism, which is also mirrored within republicanism, it is proving to be a healthy condition, in that in order to move forward we are seeking ways to rise above the day-to-day politicking and look for an endgame that will afford everyone a long and lasting peace.

Outside the realm of politics there are many important social and economic issues which we must face together; massive job losses, chronic unemployment, education, health issues and indeed a whole plethora of problems that concern everyone.

Lastly, The Other View was the recipient of a major peace award recently in Dublin. The magazine has merited this award by virtue of the fact that it has continued to provide a forum for frank, open and honest debate.

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