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The people of Northern Ireland disagree about the future of Ireland. One side wants to remain part of the UK. They are called Unionists. Hardline Unionists are also known as Loyalists. Most of the Unionists are also Protestants.
The other side want Northern Ireland to join the South and become part of the Irish Republic. They are called Nationalists. Hardline Nationalists are also known as Republicans. They are mostly Catholics.
The two communities in Northern Ireland are represented by a large number of different organisations. Here is a list of the main organisations for the Nationalist and Unionist communities:
Nationalist/Catholic
SDLP - Social Democratic and Labour Party:
Founded in 1970, the SDLP is supported almost entirely by Catholics. It wants Irish unity but is fiercely opposed to the violence of the IRA. The SDLP is the main voice of peaceful Nationalism in Northern Ireland.
Sinn Féin:
This political party backs the tradition of revolutionary violence and the work of the IRA. It is supported by Catholics in working-class areas.
IRA - Irish Republican Army:
Originally established in 1919, this organisation has used force to oppose the British presence in Ireland. IRA members have killed large numbers of British soldiers and Northern Ireland police officers. IRA bombs have also killed civilians in both Northern Ireland and mainland Britain. The IRA is illegal in both the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
Unionist/Protestant
UUP - Ulster Unionist Party:
The Ulster Unionist Party was established in the late 19th century to defend the interests of northern Protestants. The UUP ruled Northern Ireland between 1920 and 1971.
DUP - The Democratic Unionist Party:
The second most powerful Unionist party was founded in 1971 by Ian Paisley. It has taken a tough and uncompromising view and has called for the destruction of the IRA.
The Orange Order:
In 1795 the Orange Order was established to help to protect Protestants. Today it is the largest Protestant organisation in northern Ireland. It is named after 17th-century Protestant king, William of Orange. It organises regular marches to celebrate the traditions of the Protestant community.
UDA/UVF - The Ulster Defence Association/The Ulster Volunteer Force:
These two groups are the main loyalist paramilitary groups. They were established in the early 1970s to fight the IRA. They are both illegal. Both groups have been responsible for the murder of innocent Catholics.
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