Sinn Fein Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Francis Wurtz President GUE-NGL response

I have just become aware of the historical decision taken by the IRA to dump arms and to exclude henceforth any other path except that of political and democratic struggle. I am sure I express the feeling of the whole of the Group of the European United Left - Nordic Green Left in the European Parliament by warmly greeting this responsible decision - the only acceptable one in our eyes.

We greatly appreciated the solemn appeal which you launched on 6 April last. This unprecedented initiative was, according to us, the best illustration of the peace strategy in which Sinn Féin has been engaged and which our group fully supports. We are delighted by the outcome of this approach.

Now a new stage opens for the construction of a just and lasting peace by the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. Sinn Féin has been able to take its responsibilities. We hope that all the other parties to the agreement can take theirs. The Irish people must be able to freely decide their own future, including the unification of their country and respect for their independence.

In the name of our group, I express to you, dear Gerry Adams, my friendship and solidarity.

Francis Wurtz
President GUE-NGL
European Parliament