A historic handshake

Photo from Stuff.

In one sense it is not unusual for the Queen to meet and shake the hand of “her” deputy first minister in Northern Ireland, but Martin McGuinness is better known for his former roles in the Provisional IRA, including allegedly its Chief of Staff from 1978 to 1982.

Some will not like this, but I think it is another good step forward. Norther Ireland today is far better off than when the conflict was in full flight.

UPDATE: Also worth noting that McGuinness probably signed off on the assassination of Lord Mountbatten in 1979, who in a cousin of the Queen’s and uncle of Prince Philip. I understand Prince Philip went out of his way, not to shake hands which is understandable. The Queen however must do what is best for her country.