THERE are real prospects for an IRA ceasefire and for the beginning of all party talks, according to the Fianna Fail leader, writes Mark Brennock.
Mr Bertie Ahern said the strong new Labour government in Britain, the active encouragement of President Clinton, the new mandate of all the Northern parties and "a new Irish government on its way" all contributed to the prospects for a second ceasefire.
Speaking yesterday to the Ireland Israel Business Association, he said he looked forward to taking up the challenge of the peace process and trying to ensure its success. "The prospects for a common island prosperity built on the back of an agreed peace dividend are too important for all the people of Ireland to give second place to lesser political considerations.
"Fianna Fail will demonstrate all the patience, generosity, imagination and firmness necessary to develop a real negotiating atmosphere which will hopefully result in an historic political accord in Ireland."