SOCIETY faces a dilemma when it comes to paedophiles and we do not pretend there is an easy answer.

On the one hand we believe that parents have a fundamental right to know if a paedophile is living in their community. How could anyone argue with a parent who insisted that they should be made aware if someone with a background in paedophilia was living next door?

On the other hand, we also understand the very valid arguments against the identification of paedophiles living in communities because of the dangers of vigilantes taking the law into their own hands. This would drive sex offenders underground where they are potentially more dangerous away from the watchful eyes of the police.

It is a dilemma which is brought to the fore again by the arrest in the North-East of Thomas O'Carroll. Although Mr O'Carroll had his name removed from the sex offenders' register following a hearing at the Court of Appeal four years ago, he is known to be a leading paedophile campaigner who has a 20-year association with the Paedophile Information Exchange.

The people of Shildon are today coming to terms with the reality that he has been living in the midst of their community for the past two years, although it appears he has now moved on.

It is hardly surprising that parents are alarmed by the revelation of his presence. But, while we understand the strength of their concerns, we would appeal to the people of Shildon to remain calm and place their trust in the on-going police investigation which has been described as "very important in helping to disrupt a significant paedophile network".