Overview

The Editorial Committee of The Other View magazine is pleased to present our first issue of 2004. We are particularly pleased to be able to carry an interview with the very eminent Senator Martin Mansergh. His interview forms part of a wide-ranging examination of republicanism in contemporary Ireland. We are no less pleased also to have a valuable contribution on this subject by members of the unionist community. In keeping with the ethos of this magazine the Editorial Committee decided to review how republicanism impacts today. This is a very broad and wide-ranging challenge and we do not claim to have represented all or even most of the potential viewpoints. Such an exercise would have required space and assets far beyond what is available to this publication. Nevertheless, we hope that our attempt to address this subject will make a contribution to those genuinely trying to understand and come to terms with other people’s point of view.

Elsewhere in this magazine we are happy to carry articles commenting on the ugly manifestation of racist intolerance in Northern Ireland. It is particularly heartening to be able to carry an article by Colin Robinson, General Secretary of the P.U.P., roundly condemning such ugly behaviour and it is our earnest wish that all of society would listen to the words of Mr.Robinson.

As always, this magazine also endeavours to afford an opportunity and a platform to those issues that bring this community together and not just aspects of division. Eamon Oakes of City Bridges has contributed an article outlining efforts being made by the Trade Union movement to develop anti-discrimination programmes, meaningful cross-border partnership and to enhance the role of organised labour in society north and south. We also carry a report of a story that sadly united the sporting world throughout our community - the untimely death of youthful GAA star Cormac McAnallen. The Editorial Committee trusts that our readers will once again appreciate the efforts we have made in bringing out this publication and as always, we look forward to hearing your comments.

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