Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Aontaímid go léir go bhfuil turas Uachtarán na hÉireann chuig Sasana an tseachtain seo tábhachtach agus stairiúil. Táimid uilig an-bhródúil as an Uachtarán agus an bheirt mná a bhí san oifig sin roimhe seo. We all acknowledge this week's State visit, which has taken 93 years to agree, was made possible because of the peace process and Good Friday Agreement. We also know this is part of a journey and much more needs to be done on the ground in the North and between both parts of the Ireland, particularly with the issue of rights. There are great possibilities and much potential in all of this, which needs focus and commitment from everybody. All identities across the island, whether Irish, British or other, must be given respect on the basis of equality.

The participation of Mr. Martin McGuinness is another sign of positive commitment by Irish republicans to engagement with our Unionist neighbours - she represents all the people in the North - and a new relationship with Britain based on equality and mutual respect. This is all very much work in progress and the State visit should be an incentive for us to look beyond this week to build the peace and continue this journey to finish our unfinished business. Does the Taoiseach agree the occasion of this week's State visit, which is wonderful in itself, should also focus minds on the need for political leaders to resolve all the outstanding issues in the peace process?

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