Good Friday Agreement - Statement by President Mary McAleese
Date: Fri 10th Apr, 1998 | 10:12
I very much welcome this historic breakthrough. It is a momentous day which heralds a new phase in developing relationships between the peoples of these islands. It is a great tribute to everyone involved in this difficult process – a process involving the building of trust and the taking of risks. I would like to commend the Independent Chairmen led by Senator George Mitchell, the two Governments, the politicians and the officials. We are all grateful to them for their endurance, courage, vision and commitment. I would also like to pay tribute to the many people abroad, and particularly those in the United States of America who nurtured the process and helped to bring it so a successful conclusion.
It offers a new beginning – a chance for everybody to reach out and accommodate those with whom we share this unique part of the world – an opportunity to build bridges and partnerships based on mutual respect for all traditions, cultures and creeds on this island.