Chairman Jim Walsh
Statement by Rep. Jim Walsh (NY-25), Chairman of the United States Congress' bicameral Friends of Ireland Committee, Co-chair of the U.S.-Irish Inter-parliamentary group, and author of the Walsh Visa bill - the only U.S. legislation associated with the Northern Ireland peace process - on today's release of the de Chastelain weapons inspection commission report:
"Today's news is an historic advancement in the decades old struggle to end religious and sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.
"Through disarmament, the IRA clearly indicates its intent to advance a political resolution to the troubles. The IRA's July 28th pledge is now confirmed fact.
"Today's announcement by General de Chastelain provides complete and credible reassurance that the IRA's decommissioning is comprehensive and irreversible. The involvement of Rev. Good and Rev. Reid - both fair minded and respected individuals from both traditions - offers an additional independent layer of verification.
"This is welcomed news to all of us who have worked to advance the Peace Process. It is my hope that all political parties and traditions match this measure of good faith by continuing to advance the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement."
END
|
