Sir, - I write to you arising out of Friday night's statement by the IRA, in which they indicated their intention to resume the arms struggle in an effort to advance their political objectives. As citizens of a democratic state, it represents the very worst outcome following nearly 18 months of non violence. August 31st, 1994 was heralded as the genesis of new thinking among the unionist and nationalist communities, and held the promise of peace and prosperity for the generation born into what has come to be known as the Troubles.
As democrats, there was an equal obligation on all parties in the process to encourage and show by example the tangible benefits of a political process, to those who had previously employed the use of force to effect political change. From an early stage in the process, it was obvious that the IRA leadership, would require tangible progress which Sinn Fein would be working towards achieving through contacts and dialogue. The failure of some parties to take the necessary political risks, and accept their responsibilities to lead the proponents of physical force to the peace table of accommodation and understanding, has resulted in our present dilemma.
History, once again, may take note for future volumes of how another opportunity was lost due to a lack of courage and goodwill on the part of democrats who chose not to engage in an age old search for peace in Ireland. Future generations, of whatever persuasion, will judge harshly those who failed to go the extra mile in the quest for mutual respect, cultural accommodation and peace. There is greater failure than incomplete success; that is the failure to attempt the worthy cause. - Yours, etc.,
National vice chairman,
Ogra Fianna Fail.
21 Moreen Road,
Sandyford, Dublin 16.