Benjamin Gilman: “I rise today to join with my colleagues in drawing attention to the turbulent, hostile situation in Northern…”

“I rise today to join with my colleagues in drawing attention to the turbulent, hostile situation in Northern Ireland--and the critical role the United States can play in achieving a just, peaceful and lasting resolution to the tragic conflict there. I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for organizing this special order to permit us to once again, focus our attention on this important issue. The United States owes a great deal of gratitude to Americans of Irish birth and descent. Their significant contributions to the development and growth of our country are part of the warp and woof of our history. Our Nation's history is interwoven with the biographies of Irish men and women who have helped to provide leadership to our Nation. No fewer than 11 Presidents, from Andrew Jackson elected in 1828, to Ronald Reagan elected in 1980, have identified themselves as at least partially of Irish descent. A number of Irish-Americans sit in Congress on both sides of the aisle. It is only appropriate that we do whatever we can to improve the situation in both parts of Ireland--the north and the south.”