For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 23, 2001
President's Statement on Northern Ireland
I warmly welcome the announcement by the Chairman of the Independent
International Commission on Decommissioning, General John de
Chastelain, that a significant act of decommissioning has been carried
out by the IRA and verified by the Commission. This is an
historic step by the IRA. The people of Northern Ireland are
now measurably closer to the lasting peace which they richly deserve.
I hope all paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland will build on
today's events, striving to achieve the total disarmament called for by
the Good Friday Agreement. I know I speak for all Americans
when I express my heartfelt appreciation to General de Chastelain for
his continuing efforts in support of the peace process. This
act of decommissioning will, I hope, lead to the full functioning of
the political institutions of the Good Friday Agreement. All
leaders should be prepared to intensify their efforts to resolve
remaining outstanding issues.
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