Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

During the summer recess the Taoiseach and the Government have achieved what all Governments since the foundation of the State have been working towards, the declared final, formal cessation of all IRA activity, an exclusive commitment to democracy and the decommissioning of the entire weaponry of that organisation.

It should be noted that the Taoiseach did not spend all his time pointing out the undoubted moral realities of the situation but concentrated on persuading those whose co-operation was necessary to achieve what we have now arrived at and which is of immense significance for the whole island and not just for Northern Ireland. General de Chastelain, who in one form or another has been involved with his colleagues for ten years, is also to be congratulated on his patience. It is fair to point out that a certain impatience which has been expressed in this House and elsewhere has also contributed to the result that has been achieved.

Our democracy is strong and I hope people would now recognise that, with regard to the peace process, the country has been in safe hands and has been led by people with a proper sense of responsibility who knew what they were doing.