WALSH STATEMENT ON THE NORTHERN IRELAND PEACE PROCESS
January 19, 2007
WALSH STATEMENT ON THE NORTHERN IRELAND PEACE PROCESS
Washington, D.C. - Congressman James T. Walsh made the following statement on the House of Representatives floor earlier this morning.
Mr. SPEAKER. I come to the House floor this morning with my good friend and colleague Richard Neal to draw the nation's attention to the Northern Ireland Peace Process.
Many remember Northern Ireland's "troubles" of the 1970's with the endless bombings, bullets, bloodshed and continuous cycle of violence. The fight was for civil rights and national aspiration. The combatants made a conscious decision to end the killing and reach a compromise.
Thanks to the efforts of the British, Irish and American governments and the political leaders of Northern Ireland we have had peace for about 10 years. But they are still struggling to implement the Good Friday Agreement that provides for power sharing, proportional representation and self-governance.
Over the years and in the face of significant criticism, Sinn Fein has delivered on every commitment outlined in the Good Friday Agreement. Sinn Fein's leadership is now asking the people they represent to accept the legitimacy of the P.S.N.I. This is the last major hurdle. They are to be commended for their actions and the pursuit of an open, equitable and accountable police force.
We now look to Ian Paisley and the DUP to step up and deliver on behalf of the Unionist community. It is time for the DUP to validate their word given at St. Andrews by unequivocally committing to a devolved power sharing government with Sinn Fein. They must make good on their word and consummate their remarkable achievement.
An historic moment is dawning on the Island of Ireland. It is time to act.
END
|
