Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

One can appreciate all the concerns expressed here today about the state of the peace process. Those concerns are all genuine and each has a different emphasis. However, it is unthinkable that the peace process should unravel at this stage. It is badly damaged and frayed at the edges but not beyond repair. It is important for us all to focus on solutions in the future. Too much time, hope and persistence has been invested in this process for it to fail at this time.

I empathise with Senator O'Toole and the parameters which he has set down. There are times when one cannot see the horizon but one knows it is still there. There is not a person on this island who is not aware that the human spirit can be dulled and oppressed by major setbacks. This is no less true in the case of the peace process. We have seen the pendulum going back and forth but must keep in mind the progress that has been made. All parties could face each other around the table, ask difficult questions and be straight in their answers. In such a way a final solution can be found. That is still my hope for the peace process.