Carolyn B. Maloney: “In recent years, world attention and pressure have brought about an end to apartheid in South Africa, a dialog between…”

“In recent years, world attention and pressure have brought about an end to apartheid in South Africa, a dialog between Israel and the PLO, and the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe and Russia. These incredible changes, unthinkable just a few years ago, make the continuing conflict in Northern Ireland all the more tragic, and the world's silence all the more puzzling. This is one reason why I strongly supported congressional efforts to grant Gerry Adams a visa, and why I applauded President Clinton's decision to do just that. I believe that Mr. Adam's visit has enhanced the process of Irish peace and reconciliation by focusing public attention on the issue and generating a healthy public debate. The joint declaration by Prime Ministers Major and Hume was initially greeted by many with great optimism. It is unfortunate that the peace process seems to have stalled since then. Mr. Adams has requested clarification from the British Government on certain points so that Sinn Fein may then approach the Irish Republican Army for a cease fire. I hope Mr. Major will provide that clarification to promote resumption of the peace process. There are other issues in which I believe that Congress can play a positive role to help improve the situation in Northern Ireland.”