First Minister Rt Hon Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have condemned today's bomb attack in Derry/Londonderry.
Mr Robinson said: "This bomb was deliberately placed in one of the busiest areas of the city and was designed to murder innocent people as they shopped on a Saturday afternoon. The perpetrators of this disgusting attack have no regard for human life. Indeed if it were not for the vigilance of the security forces we could have been faced with a far greater tragedy this afternoon.
"The people of Londonderry and of Northern Ireland have made it clear in our recent elections that they have no wish to return to the dark days of the past. There is no support for those who wish to destroy and divide us with this type of evil and callous attack. They will not succeed."
Mr McGuinness said: "This afternoon's attack in the centre of Derry was carried out by people who have no mandate from anyone. Those who carried it out need to realise that such an attack only hardens our resolve to ensure that peace survives and continues to flourish.
"The people of Derry have worked hard to build a city that is peaceful and inclusive. Their hard work will not be undone by today's mindless act."
