Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

We are now beyond that point. Ambiguity is now unambiguously destructive on the question of paramilitarism and the relationship between the IRA and Sinn Féin. As we have reached the point where all ambiguity is now destructive and fundamentally corrosive of democratic values, the moment of truth has come for the provisional movement to make its choice. Whichever way it makes its choice, we will meet it head on. We will meet it head on if it continues with paramilitarism. Alternatively, we will meet it head on and generously if it makes this quantum leap from paramilitarism to constitutional democracy.

The attitude exemplified by Detective Garda Ben O'Sullivan is the true attitude which the people should carefully read, study and take on board. Contrary to what has been stated or implied, I will never, as Minister for Justice, Equality or Law Reform, nor have I ever intended to, take any steps in regard to the Castlerea prisoners without first personally speaking to the widow of Jerry McCabe, Mrs. Anne McCabe, and to Ben O'Sullivan. If and when the happy time arrives that paramilitarism ends, that would be the happiest journey I could possibly make. However, until that time arrives, I will not in any way compromise my office, the Garda Síochána or the principles of Irish republican constitutionalism.