On 15th August 1975, the relatively new country of Bangladesh was shaken by the news of the assassination of its founder, Sheikh Mujiber Rahman and members of his family.  Then, on 15th August 1998, the fragile peace in Northern Ireland in the wake of the Good Friday Agreement was shattered by the bombing of Omagh, with much loss of life, injury and damage to property.   Both events occurred on my birthday and I have vivid memories of them. As I celebrate today, I will spare a thought for the country of Bangladesh and for the town of Omagh.