An Phoblacht/Republican News, October 28, 2003
Irish government statement on talks, election
The following is the full text of a statement today by the
Irish government on the forthcoming election and the peace
process:
Despite intensive engagement, it has not been possible to
complete the initiative that we believe would have represented
the optimum pathway into the forthcoming Assembly elections.
Nevertheless, the developments over the last week have been
very significant the statement by Gerry Adams, endorsed by the
IRA, which I greatly welcome, and a third and substantial act
of arms decommissioning by the IRA. Taken together, they
represent a key advancement in the peace process on this
island. We will be reflecting and also discussing with the
British Government how we can respond to, and consolidate,
these important developments.
I greatly appreciate the work of General John de Chastelain
and his colleague Andrew Sens. The integrity and commitment
they have brought to the work of the IICD has been crucial to
the progress made thus far.
The people of Northern Ireland will now have their say on
November 26th. In the coming weeks, I urge all of the parties
to campaign on a positive and constructive basis, mindful
that, following elections, a way will have to be found to
restore the operation of all the political institutions.
The Good Friday Agreement remains the template for political
progress. It is the only viable basis for an agreed way
forward and the only one that offers the prospect of
attracting support from both communities. Its fundamental
values, principles and protections are not up for negotiation.
I commend the efforts made by all the pro-Agreement parties
over the last five years to make politics work in the
interests of all the people of Northern Ireland. They can be
proud of their collective achievements. We know of all the
difficulties and frustrations. But we have also seen what can
be achieved. The situation in Northern Ireland is now
unimaginably better as a result.
Together with Prime Minister Blair, I look forward to resuming
political dialogue with the parties in the aftermath of the
elections and to rapid agreement on the setting up of an
inclusive Executive, to pressing on with the full
implementation of the Agreement and fully securing its vision
of a new beginning for all the people on this island.