John Joseph Moakley: “I rise here today to say a few words about the conflict in Northern Ireland. This issue has been important to me for…”

“I rise here today to say a few words about the conflict in Northern Ireland. This issue has been important to me for many years, and I thank my colleague and friend, Richard Neal, for organizing this special session. Given the recent developments in the peace process and diplomatic visits by Prime Minister John Major, Irish President Mary Robinson, and Irish Prime Minister Albert Reynolds, I think it is especially important that we call attention to the many questions surrounding this conflict. For many years there seemed little reason to hope for a peaceful, demilitarized Northern Ireland. Efforts toward a united Ireland were too often associated with violence and fear. Well, that has changed. I believe we have reached a historic moment in this conflict and believe it is our responsibility not to let this opportunity slip away. The joint peace declaration gives all parties a foundation from which to approach lasting solutions in Northern Ireland. Prime Minister Major and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland John Mayhew have publicly reaffirmed their desire to legislate for a united Ireland. I am encouraged that Prime Minister Major has said repeatedly that the British Government has no strategic interest in remaining in Northern Ireland and that the British Government intends to withdraw its troops from Northern Ireland if the violence stops.”