That past, where symbols summon deadly emotions, has been revived by English nationalists in the Tory party who appear comfortably ignorant of the Troubles. Erasing the border in Ireland, once dotted with watchtowers and checkpoints, was necessary. But Brexit put the deadly issues of the Irish border and sovereignty back into mainstream debate. Dissident republicans have been blamed by the police for the van bomb attack on a Derry courthouse. Their ideological patrons have long recognised Brexit's potential to reignite the conflict, with one quoted in academic Marisa McGlinchey's new study Unfinished Business as saying it was "the best chance we've had since 1916".

Homes evacuated in Circular Rd area of Derry/Londonderry after vehicle hijacked around 11:30am; 3 masked men hijacked white Transit van, before abandoning it. Community centre in Central Dr open to those evacuated. Cordons in place.  We appreciate your patience. Updates to follow

— PSNI (@PoliceServiceNI) January 21, 2019

○ Derry on alert: Police respond to reports of abandoned vehicle, homes evacuated

'Sapere aude'