ALDE MEPs condemn the murder of Constable Ronan Kerr in Omagh last weekend.   The message is clear that Europe must stand firmly behind the people of Northern Ireland in their refusal to accept a return to the violence of the past.

Pat the Cope Gallagher  (FF, Ireland) "This was a cowardly act, carried out by deluded killers who believe they can break the peace now taking root in Northern Ireland. We must nor return to a time of fear and violence and the murder of Ronan Kerr only serves to remind us of that. Every support must be given to the PSNI to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.  Europe must stand firmly behind the people of Northern Ireland in their refusal to accept a return to the violence of the past. "

Marian Harkin (Independent, Ireland) "I strongly condemn the senseless murder of this courageous young man. But through this tragedy I am encouraged that there was cross-community abhorrence.  The peace process with the help of the EU has come so far, it will not be derailed by one heinous act". 

Fiona Hall, (Liberal Democrat, UK) "UK and Irish citizens of all political persuasions are united in condemning the murder of Constable Kerr.  This abhorrent act must not and will not threaten the Province's hard won peace".