Democrats must treat DUP trip with dignity

Sir, – When DUP leader Arlene Foster visits Fife later this month to take part in the Boyne March (Courier, June 2), she might want to reflect on a number of points.

When she looks at the condition of Cowdenbeath High Street, she might think that Northern Ireland isn’t treated so badly after all. She seems to have been much more successful in getting resources for Northern Ireland than local politicians have for the regeneration of what was once a proud thoroughfare.

Those same politicians might want to reflect on why so many people are prepared to march in support of the Orange cause when it is so difficult to get them to march in support of their own causes.

Controversy over Orange marches in Fife has been an annual ritual for as long as I can remember.

There are two points the critics of Mrs Foster’s visit should take into account.

The first is the simple democratic principle that we must respect the right of those with whom we fundamentally disagree to march peacefully through the streets.

The second is that it is important to hear what the DUP leader actually has to say. Her remarks may mitigate some of the worst aspects of Orange Order rhetoric.

She can be held only partly responsible for the impasse that has led to the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly. She showed magnanimity by attending the funeral of her late deputy leader Martin Mcguinness.

We don’t know whether her remarks will heal or divide, but all democrats should treat her trip to the east of Scotland with the dignity it deserves.

Bob Taylor.

24 Shiel Court, Glenrothes.

Picture: PA. One correspondent says that Arlene Foster is only partly responsible for the suspension of Northern Ireland’s Assembly.