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Archbishop Dolan talks 'Ground Zero mosque' with Gov. Paterson, has no 'strong feelings' on location

Kenneth Lovett, Oren Yaniv and Samuel Goldsmith New York Daily News 08/24/2010 16:29
Archbishop James Dolan (l.) met with Gov. Paterson to discuss the 'Ground Zero' mosque.

Archbishop James Dolan (l.) met with Gov. Paterson to discuss the 'Ground Zero' mosque.


Archbishop Timothy Dolan left a meeting with Gov. Paterson on Tuesday saying he doesn't have "strong feelings" about whether a mosque should be built near Ground Zero.



It was an apparent change in position for the Catholic leader, who last week signaled support for moving the 13-story Islamic community center.

Dolan is certain of one thing: The debate over the Park51 mosque and community center is too heated.

"What we do not need are protests, but promoters of dialogue," he said, referring to the vitriol at dueling rallies near Ground Zero over the weekend.

Paterson has offered to help the developers of the Park51 center find a new space farther from the World Trade Center site if they want it.

Joining the fray, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver unequivocally endorsed a site change Tuesday.

"In the spirit of living with others, they should be cognizant of the feelings of others and try to find a location that doesn't engender the deep feelings that currently exist about this site," said Silver, a Democrat who represents the area.

Hours later, at a Gracie Mansion dinner marking Ramadan, Mayor Bloomberg reiterated his support of the mosque's chosen location.


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