John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I join previous speakers in raising the IRA statement. Every speaker has said something of value with which I agree. Senator O'Toole described the statement as predictable and argued against an over-reaction at this stage. The Senator is correct. I would like to quote a paragraph of the statement. It reads:

The IRA has demonstrated our commitment to the peace process again and again. We want it to succeed. We have played a key role in achieving the progress achieved so far. We are prepared, as part of a genuine and collective effort, to do so again, if and when the conditions are created for this.

But peace cannot be built on ultimatums, false and malicious accusations or bad faith.

The IRA should look at its own statement because everything is in that paragraph. I do not want to get into a slagging match with the IRA because it is not the time for that. However, the positive in that statement is that it has said it wants the peace process to succeed and mentioned that it would make an effort, so it is a time for reflection. Both Governments have made it clear that the ball is firmly in the IRA's court. We know the issue and on what it must reflect. When it does so, I have no doubt both Governments will meet it half way and, indeed, the Irish people will embrace it. We want this to succeed and stories such as that relayed by Senator Ryan show the positive side. That is what we want. We should not overreact. There should be a period of reflection for everyone. Hopefully, when the IRA analyses that paragraph and looks in the mirror, we will be able to get everything back on track.