A Fragile Peace and A Fight For Justice In Northern Ireland | Foreign Correspondent

ABC News In-depth18 minutes read

Brexit tensions have reignited violence in Northern Ireland due to the customs border and economic impact, leading to protests and social issues in communities like Rathcoole. Despite past efforts for peace and integration, divisions persist, with challenges for police in building trust and combating paramilitary organizations involved in crime.

Insights

  • The implementation of a customs border in Northern Ireland due to Brexit has caused economic disruptions, protests, and increased tensions among locals loyal to Britain, impacting the region's stability and prosperity.
  • The persistent presence of paramilitary organizations, involvement in criminal activities, and the tragic death of journalist Lyra McKee underscore the ongoing challenges of violence, community divisions, and the struggle for reconciliation despite past peace efforts in Northern Ireland.

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Recent questions

  • What caused tensions to resurface in Northern Ireland?

    Brexit led to unexpected customs border implementation.

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Summary

00:00

"Northern Ireland: Brexit, Violence, and Division"

  • Tensions have resurfaced in Northern Ireland after a period of peace, with violence returning to the streets.
  • Brexit led to the unexpected implementation of a customs border in Northern Ireland, angering locals loyal to Britain.
  • The new sea border due to Brexit has caused delays and increased costs, impacting the economy and sparking protests.
  • Belfast, a city with a troubled history, is currently experiencing a sense of shutdown and quietness.
  • The Protestant community in Northern Ireland celebrates its British identity through parades and cultural events.
  • The community in Rathcoole, a working-class area, faces social issues like suicides and mental health problems.
  • The history of conflict in Northern Ireland dates back to the formation of the state, with Catholics and Protestants fighting over identity.
  • The peace settlement signed in 1998 brought optimism and economic growth to Northern Ireland.
  • Despite efforts to dismantle peace walls and promote integration, communities remain divided and fear the consequences of removing barriers.
  • The police in Northern Ireland face challenges in building community trust and dealing with potential attacks from paramilitary organizations.

20:24

"Northern Ireland's Ongoing Violence and Challenges"

  • Paramilitaries on both sides are involved in drugs and crime, drawing in disaffected teenagers, with a refusal to learn from past mistakes, including the continued activity of the RA and attacks.
  • The Good Friday Agreement aimed to reconcile warring sides but faced challenges, leading to government collapse due to leaders' conflicts.
  • In Londonderry, the New IRA, formed in 2012, has a stronghold, with a tragic incident in 2019 resulting in journalist Lyra McKee's death during a riot.
  • Lyra McKee, a peace advocate and journalist, was killed by the New IRA, highlighting the ongoing violence and challenges in Northern Ireland, with her family campaigning for justice and a safer future for all.
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