THE main employer and union organisations have united in calling for people to wear white peace ribbons on St Patrick's Day to show their desire for an end of violence in Northern Ireland.
The Irish Business and Employers' Confederation and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, in a joint statement, said wearing a white ribbon interwoven with shamrock on St Patrick's Day would show a desire for a ceasefire and a rejection of violence as a means to resolving the differences between the different traditions on this island.
"It is appropriate that, at this time of national celebration, we send a clear signal to all Irish people at home and abroad that violence is unacceptable.
"It is also an opportunity to tell the world that we are a peace loving people who wish to live in harmony with our neighbours and to solve our problems by peaceful means."
A number of companies and organisations are making white ribbons available free and it is hoped these will be worn with shamrock on St Patrick's Day.