Compassion key to heal NI

SINN Fein’s Irish leader has called for a “compassionate” approach to the past.

Mary Lou Mcdonald said the party should acknowledge all suffering during the Northern Ireland conflict and provide a space to remember.

The party president urged a duty of candour and acceptance of difference, and said reconciliation “sits above” the constitutional question surrounding the creation of a united Ireland.

Ms Mcdonald said: “We need ... a focus on finding common ground, a compassionate approach to the past.

“All suffering is real and sincere – no one has a monopoly on suffering.”