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Issue No.15 Winter 2003
Overview
Welcome to the fourth Christmas edition of our magazine. It is sound testimony
to the fact that The Other View project has not only proved enduring but
remains one of the few forums of its kind that offers an opportunity to
anyone wishing to contribute an article, letter, or graphic on any subject,
to express an opinion or for that matter voice opposition to another.
This has been the whole and sole purpose that governs this project.
Our Autumn edition which focused on racism drew a lot of positive comment.
A letter in this issue from a representative of the Chinese community
speaks volumes. The timing couldn’t have been better as the scourge
of racism has recently been very topical. This edition looks at various
views on independence. Ideally we would have liked articles from Welsh
and Scottish independence parties but they are still within our editorial
focus. Other articles hone in on other topical matters such as Remembrance
Day and its meaning for all the people of Ireland. It recalls the sacrifice
of nationalists and unionists who fought against a common enemy in common
woe and common weal in two world wars. There is much we can learn from
it.
Other pieces focus on concerns of older people. Attacks on the elderly
still shock and disturb us. It goes against the very nature of our society
where despite our differences we all share a reverence and admiration
for our older folk. Other contributors outline their views on issues such
as crime detection and the ban on smoking due to come into effect in the
New Year in the republic.
The outcome of the Assembly elections was somewhat predictable. Clearly
there was apathy, as many people did not vote. Many will ponder as to
whether things have gone from bad to worse or indeed if forever and a
day we will see governance in the North. Undoubtedly there is an onus
on all community leaders and activists to double their efforts to ensure
that the peace process continues. In this respect this magazine will continue
to provide a forum for debate and discussion that will focus on the realities
of everyday issues that affect ordinary people in our divided communities.
The views expressed by our contributors are their own and do not necessarily
reflect that of the editorial committee.
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