A New Chapter in Anglo-Irish Relations: Ireland's Bid for Peace

The Irish Republican Army's (IRA) announcement of an open-ended cease-fire in Northern Ireland on Wednesday has opened a new chapter in the complex and bloody history of Anglo-Irish relations. The move offers the prospect of lasting peace wrapped in an Anglo-Irish political settlement that unites the Protestant and Catholic communities torn apart by sectarian violence. For most people in Northern Ireland, the idea of lasting peace seemed a distant dream, and the threat of continued violence remains.

Key Takeaways:

• The history of Anglo-Irish relations dates back to the period of English King Henry II, who received a papal grant of Ireland on the condition that he establish order throughout the island. Successive English monarchs attempted to impose their authority on Ireland despite often violent opposition.
• The 25-year period known as "The Troubles" has left 3,168 people dead, with sectarian violence orchestrated by the IRA and loyalist groups such as the Ulster Volunteer Force and Ulster Freedom Fighters.
• The past 11 years have seen 35 people killed on the British mainland, with hundreds more injured, including attacks on English department stores, hotels, military posts, railway stations, and shopping centers.
• Peace efforts led to the Downing Street Declaration, which offered Sinn Fein, the IRA's political wing, the chance to participate in all-party talks in exchange for an IRA renunciation of violence.
• The announcement raises questions about the sincerity of the IRA and the commitment of the British government to negotiate with Sinn Fein.
• The history of previous cease-fires, in 1971 and 1975, has shown a pattern of collapse, and the outcome of the current cease-fire remains uncertain.

Statistics:

• 3,168 people died during the 25-year period known as "The Troubles."
• 35 people were killed on the British mainland in the past 11 years.
• British and Irish government pledges not to negotiate with Sinn Fein until a cease-fire is established have become a central issue in peace talks.
• The Downing Street Declaration in 1993 marked a significant effort towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Northern Ireland.
• Estimated damage caused by IRA bombings in London in 1992 and 1993 was £1 billion.

Sources:

• The Irish Republican Army's announcement Wednesday of an open-ended cease-fire in Northern Ireland
• The Downing Street Declaration, released at a news conference on Dec. 15, 1993
• News reports from 1991, 1992, and 1993