President Clinton On Peace Process In Ireland

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release July 15, 1999

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

I share the regret that the people of Ireland and Northern Ireland feel at the setback in the peace process. They have voted overwhelmingly for peace. They want a permanent end to violence and to the potential for violence. The cry for a peaceful, inclusive, democratic society in Northern Ireland has never been stronger.

Real progress has been made on all sides toward fulfilling the solemn commitments spelled out in the Good Friday Agreement. It is incumbent on all parties to carry out their obligations under that accord. I am convinced that it is possible to achieve full implementation of this historic Agreement in all its aspects by next spring, as contemplated by its terms.

The British and Irish governments intend to conduct over the next few weeks an interim review of the implementation of the Agreement aimed at overcoming the hurdles in the peace process. For the future of all the people of Northern Ireland who want an enduring peace and a normal life, I call upon all those involved to find the way to get the peace process back on track. I am ready to assist Prime Minister Blair, Prime Minister Ahern and the parties in any way I can to achieve this goal.

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