With the coming into effect of the British-Irish Agreement in December 1999, almost three years ago, the constitutional changes provided for in the Good Friday Agreement came into force and the principle of consent was enshrined in our Constitution. By affirming the consent principle as the basis for constitutional change in the future and by ratifying generous and inclusive reformulated Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution, the people sent a clear message that they respect all of the traditions on the island and that they want all of the people on the island to live in peace and on the basis of an honourable accommodation. The Government has been a fair and reasonable partner in the process of seeking to implement all aspects of the Agreement and it is our priority to continue to work on this basis with all the parties to achieve this end.