Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

There have been several debates in the House in recent years on the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement. In many ways the pendulum has swung from euphoria to dejection, but significant progress has been made in the peace process. We have praised the leaders of the different political parties for their persistence only to see the prize taken from them. However, they are still prepared, together with their civil servants, to go back to the table to try to find a solution. Looking at the history of Ireland, I do not think anyone believed throughout that period that it would be an easy task. If one travels to the North of Ireland today, one will find there is a different perception there from in the Republic. However, it is absolutely vital to hold on to that prize which is still within our grasp.

I do not think it is helpful to suggest that one can move forward without bringing everyone on board, which must be done. It is very easy to put forward in the House a litany of atrocities, which is the correct thing to do. It is right that we do not ignore humanity when trying to achieve this solution. It is right that cases were mentioned here today. We mentioned Bloody Sunday, Pat Finucane and Rosemary Nelson here previously. There are so many people who could be mentioned. As democrats, it is absolutely vital to make an effort to solve this problem. I was particularly taken yesterday morning by the brief contribution of Senator O'Meara on this issue. As she said, let us get back to business. Let us establish a real democracy in Northern Ireland and throughout the entire island. That is my appeal today. One is putting one's head above the parapet in saying something like that but the prize is too great to let it slip at this stage.