02/05/07 NUJ Statement

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Joint Statement by Dr Diarmuid Martin, Archbishop of Dublin and Sheikh Hussein Halawa, Imam of Dublin:

 

We, an Archbishop of the majority faith in Ireland and an Imam of the majority faith in Gaza, stand here united in seeking the safe return of Alan Johnston to his family, friends and colleagues. Christians and Muslims, as followers of the Almighty and Merciful God, work together to foster respect for the dignity of each human person.  We work for justice, solidarity, freedom, security and peace for all. It is not right to keep a person like Alan against his will and we come together in solidarity with all those who have called for his release.  We note that these include the leaders of the Palestinian people as well as many, many citizens of Gaza.  Abducting a reporter can never help a cause, especially when the reporter is as fair and honest as Alan.  It can only harm the real interests of the Palestinian people.  In the pursuit of peace and freedom, values treasured by each of our religions, we plead with his captors to let Alan Johnston go immediately.