Commenting on the Bomb Attack on the City on Thursday 19th January 2012

"The bomb attacks on Derry demonstrate the contempt that the dissidents have for each and every citizen of this city. The dissidents have chosen to exclude themselves from the political process and because of this they have no voice and certainly no mandate - yet they have chosen to hold our people to ransom. The bombs are an economic attack on the people of the city: the perpetrators' desired outcome is to destroy the economy and our children's future. More businesses are put at risk of closure every time there are bomb attacks of this kind - and such economic damage cannot possibly contribute towards the creation of a united Ireland.

"The action by the dissidents is a clear attempt to reduce the chances of unemployed people in this city obtaining the jobs that they need to have a better quality of life - including young people in economically distressed areas, such as Creggan, the Bogside, Brandywell, Shantallow and Galliagh.

"Our society wants to move on, we are engaged in an agreed democratic process and this is light years away from our troubled past. The people of Derry have shown tremendous resilience and outstanding leadership. The city is committed to working together to build a brighter future.

"We will be redoubling our efforts and we remain focused on developing business opportunities, promoting the creative and digital economy, building a robust cultural infrastructure and bringing jobs to the city. Those that continue to perpetuate such reckless behaviour upon the community in Derry have no regard for this city or its people. Those who bomb Ireland lose their right to claim any love for our wonderful island."