Victims Commissioner Resigns
Ian Jeffers, Commissioner for Victims and Survivors has resigned from the post adding further uncertainty at this crucial time. While we wish him well in his new post we must note that there are many things which have been left undone and many issues which victims require leadership and a voice to challenge. It is time to reconsider the role and relevancy of the Commissioner especially in light of the recent roll mover on the roll our of the Legacy legislation.
Mr Jeffers said in his resignation statement
“It is with mixed emotions that today I tendered my resignation as Commissioner for Victims and Survivors to accept the post of Chief Executive of Cooperation Ireland.
I took up the post of Commissioner with the sole aim of making a difference for victims, survivors and our society more broadly, and I can honestly say it has been an honour, a privilege and – at times – a huge frustration.
There is little in Northern Ireland society that cannot be linked in some way to the legacy of our past; our divisions, our government and the many transgenerational issues we continue to face.
It is unfortunate that my tenure was in the context of having no devolved administration in Northern Ireland but throughout this challenge, I always found great hope through the many people bringing positive drive to carve a better way forward; the strength and determination of the Victims and Survivors Forum who continually use their lived experiences for the greater good, the staff team at the Commission, and countless others I have engaged with over the past year 18 months.
In my new role with Cooperation Ireland, I look forward to continued collaboration with these individuals and building on this important work.”
International Congress of Victims of Terrorism
FAIR represented Northern Ireland's victims at a series of International Congresses where the voice of innocent victims were amplified and issues debated.
The International Centre for Victims of Terrorism of the San Pablo CEU University Foundation is the institution that established the International Congresses of Victims of Terrorism, which were born with a double objective: to be a forum where the voice of the victims could be heard and to help them to have the recognition they deserve, both by society and authorities.
These Conferences have already been held six times: Madrid (2004), Bogotá (2005), Valencia (2006), again in Madrid (2008), Medellín (2009) and Salamanca (2010). They have taken part in them more than 2.500 terror victims from different countries: Argelia, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Congo, France, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Spain, United Kigdom, United States and Uruguay.
Ist International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Madrid)
In 2004, the San Pablo CEU University Foundation and the Foundation for Victims of Terrorism (Spain) organized the first edition of the International Congress on Victims of Terrorism in Madrid. The main objective was to recognize the strength of victims of terrorism, who are often forgotten. This way, they could feel the warmth, respect and affection of the entire society. This first edition was opened by HRH Felipe de Borbón, Prince of Asturias. In this first Congress, victims of terrorism from United States, Israel, Ireland, Colombia, Argelia and Spain had the chance to speak and share their experiences. Politicians, judges and journalists spoke about how important was not to forget the victims of terrorism. The closing lecture was given by Mr. José María Aznar who, by that moment, was President of the Spanish Government.
IInd International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Bogota)
The second edition was held in February 2005 in Bogotá (Colombia). On this occasion, Sergio Arboleda University in Bogotá organised the event. The opening lecture was given by Mr. José María Aznar, and Álvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia gave the closing lecture. Victims of terrorism from Colombia and other Latin American countries, Russia, Spain, Indonesia, Ireland, United States and Israel attended the conferences.
IIIrd International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Valencia)
In February 2006, Cardenal Herrera CEU University in Valencia hosted the III International Congress of Victims of Terrorism. The venue was the Palace of Congresses of the Valencian capital, where more than 700 people registered, including victims of terrorism and attendees. Terror victims from Peru, Russia, United States, Ireland, United Kingdom, Colombia and Spain took part.
TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias opened the third edition of the International Congress on Victims of Terrorism. The closing lecture was given by Mr. José Antonio Alonso, Minister of Interior of Spain. Mr. Francisco Camps, President of the Autonomous Community of Valencia, and Mrs. Rita Barberá, Major of Valencia, also spoke at the closing lecture. During this edition, the attendees had the opportunity to see a photographic exhibition by Miguel Angel Blanco Foundation, which showed the cruelty and the tragic consequences of the terrorist scourge.
IVth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Madrid)
The IVth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism was held at the San Pablo CEU University in Madrid in January 2008. More than 400 victims of terrorism from different countries which have suffered, and still suffer, terrorist attacks (United States, Ireland, Israel, Peru, Uruguay, France, Colombia, Argentina, Holland, Italy and, of course, Spain) attended the event.
Among the participants in the fourth edition were TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, who opened the Congress; Mr. Alvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia; Mr. Fernando Araujo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia; Mrs. Esperanza Aguirre, President of the Community of Madrid; and Mr. Mariano Rajoy, leader of the main opposition party in Spain. During this Conference, the attendees could also see the photographic exhibition of the Miguel Ángel Blanco Foundation.
Vth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Medellin)
With the background of the four editions, in May 2009 took place in Medellín (Colombia) the V International Congress of Victims of Terrorism. It was organised by the Colombian institutions Visible Victims Foundation and Sergio Arboleda University, in collaboration with the International Centre for Victims of Terrorism of the San Pablo CEU Foundation.
TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias attended the Inaugural Ceremony and they were accompanied by Mr. Álvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia and other authorities. Nearly 1.000 victims of terrorism from different countries, including, Rwanda, the United States, Northern Ireland, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, France, Spain and, of course, Colombia, attended the Conference. The closing lecture was given by Mr. Felipe Calderón, President of México.
VIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Salamanca)
Finally, the Sixth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism was on February 11th – 13th 2010 in Salamanca. Over 400 victims of terrorism from different countries which have suffered or are suffering from this scourge, such as Argentina, Congo, Colombia, United States, France, Ireland, Israel, Italy, United Kigdom, Russia and Spain, took part. Once more, the opening ceremony was given by TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, and Mrs. Arantza Quiroga, President of the Basque Country Parliament gave the closing lecture.
During the events planned for this sixth edition it took place a tribute act, called Salamanca with the victims of terrorism, where the inhabitants had the opportunity to participate directly in the Congress and express their affection and solidarity with victims of terrorism. Thousands of people gave their support to the victims in the Salamanca’s main square.
VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Paris)
The French Association of Victims of Terrorism (AfVT.org), member of the European Network of Associations of Victims of Terrorism (NAVT), in partnership with the International Observatory for the Victims of Terrorism (CEU), organized the VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism that recently took place September 15-17, 2011 at the amphitheatre Foch of the Military School of Paris.
This was the first time that the International Congress of Victims of Terrorism took place outside a Spanish speaking country. The VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism in Paris included representation of victims of terrorism from 29 different countries around the world and included victims, civil society actors, political leaders, representatives of various institutions, international experts and journalists.
Comity of Honor
Finally, it is worth highlighting that the six editions of the International Congresses on Victims of Terrorism have had superb Honour Committees, including TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, the President of the Spanish Government, the President of the Republic of Colombia, the President of the Congress Deputies and Senate of Spain, several Presidents of the Governments from Spain and Colombia, the Ombudsman and regional authorities, such as the Presidents of the Autonomous Communities of Madrid, Valencia, Castilla y León and the Mayors of Madrid, Valencia, Medellín and Salamanca.
Remembering Former Chairman
Remembrance - Harry Bell MBE. Who passed away a year ago. Harry was a dedicated President of FAIR, a victim who lost 5 other members of his family. He had worked tirelessly as Chairman for many years and his dedication to the group saw many results. As a building contractor his knowledge and experience was vital as we secured and renovated and developed our Living Memorial Centre. The building is in many ways a lasting legacy to his time as Chairman.
We are thinking about his family as we remember Harry.
Anniversary Dinner
Celebrating 25 Years of Strength and Resilience: FAIR Dinner at Banbridge
Introduction: In a world that often overlooks the plight of victims and survivors, the FAIR Victims Group has stood as a beacon of hope and support for a quarter of a century. This year marks a remarkable milestone – the 25th Anniversary of the FAIR Victims Group. To celebrate this journey of strength, resilience, and justice, the group organised a special dinner at Banbridge. This event was a poignant and empowering gathering, bringing together survivors, advocates, and allies to commemorate the progress made and to renew the commitment to the ongoing fight for justice.
Reflecting on 25 Years: Founded in 1998, FAIR has been unwavering in its dedication to providing support, understanding, and resources to those who have experienced injustice. Over the past 25 years, the group has not only been a lifeline for victims but has also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the challenges survivors face in their pursuit of justice.
The journey has been marked by triumphs and challenges, but through it all, FAIR has remained steadfast in its mission to advocate for fairness, accountability, integrity, and respect. The anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and acknowledge the collective strength that has fueled the group's impact over the years.
A Night of Celebration at Banbridge: The anniversary dinner at Banbridge promises to be a night filled with reflection, celebration, and unity. Set against the backdrop of this picturesque venue, attendees will have the chance to connect with fellow survivors, share stories, and find solace in the shared experience of overcoming adversity.
The program for the evening includes speeches from key figures within the FAIR Victims Group, highlighting the achievements and milestones reached over the past 25 years. Special guests, including advocates and community leaders, will also share their insights on the importance of supporting victims and survivors in their quest for justice.
The dinner at Banbridge is not just a celebration but a recommitment to the principles that have guided the FAIR Victims Group throughout its existence. It is an acknowledgment of the strength of survivors and a call to action for continued advocacy in the face of ongoing challenges.
Looking Forward: As FAIR enters its next chapter, the anniversary dinner serves as a springboard for the future. With the unwavering support of its members, allies, and the broader community, the group aims to continue its mission of creating a more just and compassionate society.
As we celebrate 25 years, let us not only reflect on the past but also look forward with optimism and determination. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with a united front and a commitment to justice, FAIR will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of survivors and in the broader fight for a fair and equitable society.
Conclusion: The 25th Anniversary dinner at Banbridge is more than a commemoration of the past; it is a celebration of the resilience, strength, and unity that define FAIR and its members. As survivors, advocates, and allies come together to mark this significant milestone, they stand not only as a testament to the progress made but as a beacon of hope for the future. May FAIR continue to shine brightly for the next 25 years and beyond, inspiring change and fostering justice for all.
Narrowwater Memorial Service 2023
A dignified service was held today at Narrow Water the site of one of the worst atrocities in the Province. The service was organised by FAIR as they have done for so for many years.
The Frontier Pipes and Drums Veterans Pipe Band provided the music. Service was officiated by Revd Graham Middleton with John Robinson (Lt Col ret.) reading Roll of Honour and Act of Remembrance and Ben Higgins (ex WO11 QOH) reading collect of Queen’s own Highlanders . Piper was Bert Harkness and Bugler John Henry.
Wreaths were laid QOH, Armed Forces Bikers, PSNI, FAIR , Newry RBL, DUP, TUV and UUP.
FAIR spokesperson Molly Carson said
“ It’s very important to the families this day to remember the sacrifice of their husbands, fathers, sons. brothers, uncles and other relatives . Young men on a peace keeping mission callously murdered by cowardly IRA terrorists who never engaged in battle but planted bombs .
Thank you to all those who participated in the service and everyone who attended. I wish to add my personal thanks for a lovely service and all those who attended from The Armed Forces Bikers Club. Thanks also to the PSNI for their security., at the event”
Joe McCullough
Joseph (Joe) McCullough who was murdered by Provisional IRA terrorists on 26 th February 1976
Joseph McCullough was a fifty-seven year old farmer and part-time member of the Ulster Defence Regiment. He was also a member of the Tullyvallen Orange Lodge, and lived on a small farm on the Castleblayney Road, Newtownhamilton.
who was stabbed to death by the Provisional IRA. His body was found a day later near his home.
Joe was staying with neighbours to avoid an attack as it had became clear that the PRA was systematically targeting members of his UDR company. On the day that Joseph was murdered, he had returned to his home in the evening to feed his dog. But an IRA gang were lying in wait to ambush him, and after stabbing him five times, they finished him off by twice cutting his throat. When he didn’t return, his neighbours went to Joseph’s farm and found him in the laneway. Joseph had sustained stab wounds to the head and neck. The nature of this murder was distinct and horrific it was a close quarters frenzied killing, which gives us some indication of the psychology of the killer. However this was not a random murder Joseph McCullough was the seventh person from Tullyvallen, in seven months, to be murdered by South Armagh PIRA, in their campaign of sectarian terrorism.
Joe was a member of the Orange Order and chaplain of Tullyvallen Orange Lodge. As a member of the Guiding Star Temperance Lodge, a couple of months earlier he’d been out on UDR patrol when the IRA attacked a meeting of the lodge at Tullyvallen, shooting dead five men, none of them in the security forces. Having narrowly missed becoming a victims of the Tullyvallan Massacre Joe would have know the risks of continuing to live and farm in the area. However like many of his friends and colleagues he was determined not to be driven off his land. Sadly he wasn’t the first of his family to be murdered by the IRA. A cousin, William Meaklin, had some time earlier been abducted from his mobile shop near Crossmaglen, tortured and murdered.
The message was clear to the isolated Protestant community - "YOU will be Next". However despite the risks and loss of loved ones and comrades these brave men held their ground, donned the uniform of the UDR and continued to defend their community.
Picture Framing
FAIR’s Picture Framing has been one of the flag- ship projects of the group with a lot of interest and an increasing number of orders. With tuition from a professional Picture-Framer, a full work- shop of tools and materials, and a couple of hours to spare a week, anyone with an interest in learning a new and exciting skill can become involved.
The course is free and at the end of it you will have the opportunity to help FAIR develop it’s pioneering business.
Come and be part of the team.
Coffee Mornings
For the ladies of the group, the Coffee Mornings provide a chance to get out of the house and into a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for a morning’schat.
Sharing time with like-minded individuals can be a therapeutic activity, and the addition of some quality coffee to the mix is sure to brighten your day
Highlights of the High Tea
With Afternoon teas and high teas all the fashion now our members and friends were in for a real treat. FAIR organised an al fresco high tea today where everyone enjoyed time together before the holiday break. With many events and activities planned for the summer months it was good to enjoy a more relaxed occasion. Thank you to our catering volunteers Liza, Charlean, Mary, Jesica and Sam. a big thank you to May, Lisa, Mary and Sam for the delicious sweets served. Great time was had by all.
Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund
A scholarship fund supporting injured or disabled veterans and backed by the Veterans' Foundation is now open for applications for the new academic year.
The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund (DVSF) provides free education at The Open University (OU) for veterans injured or disabled during military service. There are 50 places available to start study in Autumn 2023 and applications close on Wednesday 5th July.
Of the two million armed forces veterans living in the UK, more than four in ten (44%) veterans who have a disability reported that they found the experience of finding the right job role as ‘difficult’.
Since it launched in 2018, the DVSF has awarded 262 scholarships to study at the OU and has helped veterans from a variety of different service backgrounds, and across the four home nations, who have physical or mental health challenges as a result of their time in the military.
One such veteran is Stuart Lawson, who was the recipient of a Disabled Veterans scholarship after serving in the Army for 19 years.
When a terrible accident turned his world upside down, Stuart was medically discharged from the Army and had to leave behind the only world he knew.
It was while undergoing gruelling rehabilitation that Stuart set himself a new goal to work towards – becoming a History teacher.
“The career I loved had been brought to a sudden halt," said Stuart,
"The military was my life. I was distraught and felt my life was meaningless. I had never been academic, didn’t enjoy my schooling and so I thought I didn’t stand a chance of being accepted.
But when the OU awarded me a scholarship, I just thought ‘Wow!’, I was so happy. It gave me a purpose."
"I still suffer from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) from my horrific accident and suffer from anxiety,” explained Stuart.
“I also still react to loud noises. But the OU has been really supportive in all this.
I want to send a huge thank you to the OU’s alumni and donors for giving me a chance to not just change my own life, but also to help educate and inspire my pupils of the future."
Successful applicants for the scholarship will receive full fee waivers for 120 credits per year and up to 360 credits in total, which is equivalent to a full honours degree.
It is deliberately flexible, and can be applied across both, undergraduate and post-graduate study, including access modules which are the OU’s short introductory courses.
Students will also have access to an expert team of specialist advisors who can help with disability and careers support.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Johnny Mercer said: "Veterans leave service with real skills and values that can't be gained elsewhere. I am delighted to see the continuation of the Open University grant programme, that gives our disabled veterans new avenues to explore, and doors to go through, as they adapt and bring the skills they have to the forefront of new opportunities post service."
Jhumar Johnson, Chief of Staff to the Vice-Chancellor at the OU, commented: “It is thanks to our generous donors that we are able to invite applications for our Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund for the fifth year. The OU are experts at delivering education to students with disabilities and health challenges and we are delighted to be able to offer this potentially life-changing opportunity to veterans.”
The OU and its partners are hoping to attract applications from a broad range of disabled veterans who can take full advantage of this fantastic opportunity to build their confidence, skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in employment and their communities.
Learn more and apply for your place before midnight on 5 July 2023.
Disabled Veterans' Scholarships | How to Pay | Open University
