|
|
|
Issue No. 6 Autumn 2001
Comments & Currents
John Hewitt Summer School
Joint editors of The Other View Billy Mitchell and Tommy McKearney were
delighted to receive an invitation to address the prestigious John Hewitt Summer
School held in Garron Tower, Co. Antrim, in July of this year.
The two men spoke on the subject of editing a magazine dedicated to providing a
platform for the airing of antagonistic political opinions. Both speakers
emphasised the fact that their objective is not to undermine the political or
cultural outlook of anyone but to provide an opportunity for debate and
discussion. Following their address, the discussion was opened to the floor and
a lively question and answer session ensued.
Letter
Dear Sir or Madam,
I found your website very interesting and certainly it promotes understanding
between the communities in the northern Ireland and also across the north south
frontier. It is quite unique but I feel it could be more oriented toward
international readers such as myself. Many of the articles contain words and
references which I feel would need some further explanation to international
visitors to the site. For example who is 'Airey Neave' and what is the
significance of 'Stormont' or place names such as 'Greater Shankill' and 'Andersonstown'.
I feel that if there was an appendice to explain the meanings and importance of
topography and political terms as well as background on political parties and
people it would be of good benefit.
May I suggest that you publish articles from more personal points of view rather
than generalised articles. There is great potential in your magazine and the
contribution of your editorial staff is the more important as they have been
involved in the violence. I would like to know more about their own involvement
and why they now promote peace and understanding. I feel also this additional
approach would help younger Irish people who would not be so much interested in
abstract issues to read the magazine and visit the website.
Lastly I once read a book that met the above needs perfectly. It was written by
an Irish professor who went to Canada in the 70's and was titled Only Wounded It
was a moving work. Let me know if you are willing to give some thought to my
letter. You are permitted to put my letter in your magazine if you wish
All the best Michael Prior, Dortmund, Germany
N.B. Mr Prioršs letter has been edited due to lack of space...Ed.
East Antrim Gazette
The cross- border partnership between the Mediation Resource Centre and Expac in
Monaghan continues to flourish.
The magazine 'The Other View' has had an exceptional reception among
institutions of further and higher education, community groups and individuals
that have requested this publication Distribution to countries including
England, Gemany and the USA shows that interest is developing These joint
editors have also participated in media interview North and South of the border
for TV, radio and foreign press..... 5th September 2001.
Temoignage Chretien
'...The quarterly The Other View intends to promote dialogue between Protestant
supporters of the British Crown and Irish Catholics who wish to see Ireland
reunited. The editors forbid no topic: political, cultural, social or historic.
Well crafted debate is welcome but religious sectarianism and insults are
forbidden. Everyone expresses their point of view and attempts to put their case
across to each other....'
Temoignage Chretien (Christian Witness)... 2 March '01
|