Statement by President Higgins marking the 20th anniversary of the Omagh Bomb
Date: Wed 15th Aug, 2018 | 01:00
On the 20th anniversary of the Omagh bombing, we remember the 29 women, men and children who were killed, and the hundreds who were injured, in a horrific act of violence.
As President of Ireland, I wish to add my voice to the expressions of solidarity with the people of Omagh and to take the opportunity to acknowledge again the courageous work of the first responders of 20 years ago.
As we recall with deep sadness the deaths and the injuries at Omagh, we should use this moment to recognise the many ways in which we are all connected and the many ways in which we have sought to make peaceful progress over the last two decades.
May we use this anniversary as we honour the victims, to re-emphasise the importance of building a culture of peace and tolerance on our island.
While the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement remains a work which requires our continued vigilance and commitment, its principles - so overwhelming endorsed by the people - represent the best hopes for the future of our shared island.
On this poignant anniversary, all of our thoughts must be with the families of those affected and with all those who continue to work towards a future of peace and reconciliation.