A Co Armagh TUV councillor has paid tribute to an event held at Stormont to mark the European Day for Victims of Terrorism, describing it as a “deeply moving” reminder of the human cost of violence.
Keith Ratcliffe said it had been “an honour” to attend the gathering, which was hosted in Parliament Buildings by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston.
Councillor Ratcliffe said the strong turnout “from across the Province and further afield” underlined “just how important it is that innocent victims are remembered and that their voices are heard”.
He continued: “The testimonies given during the event were deeply moving. Hearing directly from victims and their families is a powerful reminder of the human cost of terrorism and why their experiences must never be forgotten or minimised.”
Paying tribute to Mr Gaston for continuing to host the annual event at Stormont, Cllr Ratcliffe added: “Providing a platform where innocent victims can come together in Parliament Buildings, share their stories and be honoured with dignity is something that deserves recognition and support.”
He said days like this underscored the need to keep victims at the heart of public remembrance.
“Behind every statistic is a life devastated by terrorism,” he said. “As a society we have a duty to ensure that innocent victims remain at the centre of remembrance and that the distinction between those who suffered from terrorism and those who carried it out is never blurred.
“Events like this ensure that the memory of innocent victims is preserved and that their voices continue to be heard in the heart of our democratic institutions.”
