I note with satisfaction that the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation has been reconvened, a matter we raised in the House some weeks ago. Some have described it as a talking shop, but such a forum can be effective when dealing with critical issues like peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. When people sit down together to talk, it often proves to be the best way forward, even if they may bore each other to death in the process. There is no doubt that everything that can be said has been said before, but reinforcing ideals, aspirations and opportunities is helpful. From 1994 to 1996 the forum did much good work. In the coming months it is not scheduled to meet as frequently as before, but every time the political parties face each other at those sessions nothing but good can come about. I wish its participants well in their work.