Republicans at all levels must try to bridge the gap separating themselves from unionists in the Northern Ireland peace process, Sinn Féin president Mr Gerry Adams said today.
Mr Adams said in a statement that he believed the IRA had made attempts recently to assure Unionists that it posed no threat to them. He also called for calm in sectarian flashpoint areas during the summer marching season.
Mr Adams said: "Despite the difficulties we all currently face due to the collapse of the political institutions, the cancellation of the Assembly elections and the failure to implement the Good Friday Agreement, I strongly believe that republicans and nationalists need to approach northern Protestants in the language of invitation.
"This should be reflected in the words and political concepts we use daily. Sinn Fein's engagement with the unionist community is a sincere effort to listen to and understand unionist concerns.
"I am aware of the gulf of mistrust that exists between republicans and unionists. I know that 30 years of conflict makes it difficult for unionists to hear what I have to say but I would ask them to listen to and accept my words as my personal attempt to address their concerns.
"I would also ask that unionists, in the same spirit, recognise and address republican and nationalist concerns about unionist intentions."
Mr Adams said he was convinced "today more than ever" that the only way forward was through dialogue, reconciliation and accommodation.
He said Sinn Fein appreciated the difficulties recent allegations of IRA activities had caused for pro-Agreement unionists.
These allegations had been used by those opposed to the peace process to subvert and undermine political change.
"Republicans must rise above that narrow agenda," Mr Adams said.
"We must recognise that unionists do have real concerns and republicans must genuinely address these concerns.
"I also believe that the IRA recognises and accepts those difficulties."
PA