Holy Cross school dispute was 'hatred at its worst'
Summary
The Holy Cross dispute in north Belfast saw loyalist protesters block Catholic schoolgirls and their parents on their way to class in 2001, creating a violent and hateful environment. Fr Aidan Troy, who helped protect the children, warns that although the exact events may not repeat, the hurt from such hatred could happen again.Key Facts
- The dispute happened in north Belfast in 2001 during the Troubles.
- Loyalist protesters tried to stop Catholic pupils and parents from reaching Holy Cross primary school.
- Police and Army set up barriers to create a safe corridor for the children.
- The protests involved violence including stones, bottles, fireworks, and a blast bomb.
- Fr Aidan Troy was the parish priest at the time and helped protect the children.
- About 100 pupils needed counseling because of the daily harassment.
- The event got worldwide attention due to images of schoolgirls escorted by police in riot gear.
- Fr Aidan emphasizes the need for dialogue and justice to prevent such hatred from happening again.
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