OMAGH CHIEF REFLECTS ON A YEAR OF TRAGEDY
Omagh chief reflects on a year of tragedy
By Valerie Robinson
THE chairman of Omagh district council last night paid tribute to local residents who worked tirelessly to rebuild the bomb-shattered community.
In his Christmas message, Sinn Fein councillor Sean Clarke said 1998 was a year of adversity and tragedy for the Co Tyrone town in the wake of the August bomb attack.
But he added the suffering "brought many of us closer together" as they mourned the 29 dead.
Cllr Clarke also remembered the national and international response to help those who suffered in the atrocity.
"Many came to help us. Some were world famous but most were ordinary people who offered kind words, thoughts and deeds."
He praised his fellow councillors, particularly his vice-chairman, Ulster Unionist Alan Rainey, for their efforts, cooperation and leadership.
"People are learning to work closely together and if I had one hope looking forward it would be for the political agreement reached on Good Friday to become a reality as quickly as possible.
"We all have work to do to construct a better society. What happened in Omagh this year should act as an incentive to us all."
By Valerie Robinson
THE chairman of Omagh district council last night paid tribute to local residents who worked tirelessly to rebuild the bomb-shattered community.
In his Christmas message, Sinn Fein councillor Sean Clarke said 1998 was a year of adversity and tragedy for the Co Tyrone town in the wake of the August bomb attack.
But he added the suffering "brought many of us closer together" as they mourned the 29 dead.
Cllr Clarke also remembered the national and international response to help those who suffered in the atrocity.
"Many came to help us. Some were world famous but most were ordinary people who offered kind words, thoughts and deeds."
He praised his fellow councillors, particularly his vice-chairman, Ulster Unionist Alan Rainey, for their efforts, cooperation and leadership.
"People are learning to work closely together and if I had one hope looking forward it would be for the political agreement reached on Good Friday to become a reality as quickly as possible.
"We all have work to do to construct a better society. What happened in Omagh this year should act as an incentive to us all."
Further Information
Publisher: THE IRISH NEWS
Ref: IN/0483
Published Date: 22-Dec-98
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