Britain Slows Down Peace Process in Northern Ireland

Strategic Insights -

The latest development in the Northern Ireland peace process has put the ball in Britain's court, as Gerry Adams, head of Sinn Fein, has called on Prime Minister John Major to initiate talks with his party immediately. Adams emphasized the importance of a pro-active approach to the peace process, allowing the people of Ireland to reach a democratic agreement. Meanwhile, all sides in the conflict have applauded the decision of rival guerrilla groups to lay down their arms and pursue their objectives through politics.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gerry Adams, head of Sinn Fein, has called on British Prime Minister John Major to initiate talks with his party immediately, citing the need for a pro-active approach to the peace process.
  • Adams emphasized the importance of a democratic agreement and called on the British Government to move the peace process forward.
  • The truce announcement by the Ulster Freedom Fighters (UFF) and Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) has underpinned peace prospects in Northern Ireland.
  • John Hume, leader of the Social Democratic and Labor Party, has urged the European Union's executive and the United States to create a peace fund for Northern Ireland.
  • Irish Government spokesman has announced plans for an all-party "National Forum for Peace and Reconciliation".
  • The next phase of the peace process, including talks with Sinn Fein, is promised within three months of a "permanent" IRA ceasefire.

Statistics:

  • 25-year guerrilla war by the IRA to end British rule in Northern Ireland has come to an end.
  • 3 months - the timeframe within which talks with Sinn Fein are promised to begin after a "permanent" IRA ceasefire.

Sources:

  • Reuter