Pressure Mounts on Republicans to Declare End to Violence

Strategic Insights -

A growing consensus is emerging that the recently concluded Assembly election in Northern Ireland has confirmed the public's support for the Good Friday Agreement. Prime Minister Tony Blair has reinforced this sentiment in telephone conversations with key figures, including Gerry Adams, David Trimble, and John Hume. The pressure is now on Sinn Fein to declare an end to violence, with the Assembly's inaugural meeting looming as a critical juncture in the peace process.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Assembly election has solidified the public's support for the Good Friday Agreement, with 75% of voters backing parties in favor of the agreement.
  • Prime Minister Tony Blair has offered support to Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble, whose party emerged with the most seats despite internal divisions and opposition from the anti-deal camp.
  • Sinn Fein strategist Martin McGuinness has been at odds with Trimble over the issue of decommissioning arms, with McGuinness insisting that there is nothing in the Agreement to prevent Sinn Fein from participating in the executive.
  • Trimble maintains that people are only entitled to participate in the administration if they have abandoned violence and committed to democratic means.
  • The political scene has shifted from "pre-conditions" to "conditions" based on the Agreement and subsequent legislation.

Statistics:

  • 75% of voters supported parties in favor of the Good Friday Agreement in the Assembly election.
  • Sinn Fein won 18 seats in the Assembly.

Sources:

  • "The News Letter"
  • Downing Street spokesman
  • Gerry Adams
  • David Trimble
  • John Hume
  • Bertie Ahern
  • John Bruton
  • Ken Maginnis