Ahern: SF/DUP deal 'can transform the future of the island'
An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said today's agreement between Ian Paisley and Gerry Adams "has the potential to transform the future of this island".
Commenting after speaking on the phone to British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Mr Ahern said: “This morning saw unprecedented and very positive developments in Northern Ireland.
“We move forward from today in an entirely new spirit and with every expectation of success. This has the potential to transform the future of this island.”
The Taoiseach said he and Mr Blair remained determined to ensure that the final steps of the peace process were successfully completed.
He added that the two Governments would accommodate the new May 8 date for devolution.
“I urge all the parties to make best use of the preparatory period now available to ensure that the new Executive will be able to discharge its responsibilities with full and immediate effect on May 8,” he said.
This is the full text of a statement by An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern following today’s meeting between Gerry Adams and Ian Paisley:
“This morning saw unprecedented and very positive developments in Northern Ireland. We move forward from today in an entirely new spirit and with every expectation of success.
“I welcome the agreement between Sinn Féin and the DUP on the restoration of the devolved institutions on May 8.
“This has the potential to transform the future of this island. This has been a period of intensive engagement involving parties and governments.
“I have discussed these latest developments again with Prime Minister Tony Blair today. Through our partnership and cooperation we are determined to ensure that the final steps of the peace process are successfully completed.
“In view of the absolute commitment to the restoration of the Good Friday Agreement institutions in six weeks’ time, and the intensive preparations for government that will now commence, the two Governments will accommodate this new date.
“I urge all the parties to make best use of the preparatory period now available to ensure that the new Executive will be able to discharge its responsibilities with full and immediate effect on May 8.”
