Press Releases08 Dec 04

Still much hope for a deal - statement from Archbishop Eames on the Northern Ireland peace process

STILL MUCH HOPE FOR A DEAL
Statement from the Most Rev Dr Robin Eames
Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
on the Northern Ireland peace process

Wednesday 8 December 2004

Many people who had great hopes of a political deal will be genuinely disappointed that this has so far proved impossible. Apart from the failure to re-establish a local administration the opportunity existed to make a major step towards removing the curse of paramilitary violence from our midst. This would have been a historic step forward. Whatever the reasons for failure I urge the politicians to go on seeking a break-through which I believe is the wish of the vast majority of people here of all traditions.

Let no one doubt how far we have come even since the talks in Leeds Castle. It will be tragic if this opportunity is allowed to pass us by and I recognize the strenuous efforts that have been made to bring us this far. I believe there is much hope that a deal can still be grasped and I urge everyone to continue their efforts.