POST-CONFLICT situations can be transformed if the victor shows some magnanimity towards the defeated. Unionism and Protestantism have had many victories over nationalism and Catholicism during the course of Irish history but have failed to adopt benevolent policies at key moments.
After victories at the Boyne and Aughrim, the Protestant Ascendancy responded with the Penal Laws. Following partition and the establishment of a Northern Ireland parliament, unionism reacted with Gerrymandering and widespread discrimination. Despite copper-fastening Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom, unionism answered the Good Friday and subsequent agreements, by reneging on key undertakings, such as the promised Irish language act. The majority of people in Ireland voted in the 1998 referendum for 'partnership, equality and mutual respect'. Despite this clear wish, by rejecting the haass recommendations, both unionist parties have again set their face against reasonable compromise. This was another opportunity for a magnanimous gesture towards nationalists and unionism was again found wanting.
Given the long history I shouldn't really be surprised.
Tomas Maoil Seach Lainn
Lettermacaward, Co Donegal
