Senator George Mitchell has stated in an interview that he will not return to Northern Ireland. "That's it! I don't have any intention of returning," Senator Mitchell told an Italian magazine, Saga.
He is quoted as saying: "My role is complete. I don't intend to return to second guess, in very difficult circumstances, these political leaders." The general interest consumer magazine, aimed at the over-50s, said Senator Mitchell remains hopeful. But he said "The Good Friday agreement must be implemented in its entirety, or it won't be implemented. Decommissioning was an essential part of the agreement and it must occur."
A spokesman for Senator Mitchell said in Washington yesterday he gave the interview on January 20th while on holiday in Rome. Sentor Mitchell could not be contacted last night.