Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

I would appreciate if these people were recognised and not forgotten in this episode. It has been stated that there is a huge commitment and risk involved for people who made initial steps. Criticisms were meted out by various commentators and sections of the media at people who made a commitment and placed their heads on the political line over the years, going back as far as the Sunningdale Agreement. I have always resented the way these people were described, with John Bruton being called names such as "Unionist John" and other derogatory terms. These criticisms were very unfair, and were made by people who did not have a commitment to the peace process down the line.

I acknowledge the contribution of the Taoiseach and Ministers down the years in the work to date. They have made a great effort to talk and bring on board their counterparts in Northern Ireland. I also acknowledge the part played by respective British Prime Ministers during the period in question, and the former Unionist leaders who made an effort but were pushed aside by the fury of those who did not want peace at that stage.

I endorse what has been said by Senator Brian Hayes with regard to the unfinished work. It is good that decommissioning has come about and that the guns are silent, but there are still skeletons in the cupboards that must be removed for us to be finally content that all people on this island can live together and support each other for the benefit of future generations.