Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs Brendan Smith TD commented on the 16th anniversary of the Good Friday agreement and historic State visit of the President to the UK to call for a fresh push on the Haas Proposals in Northern Ireland. 

Deputy Smith said, “The Good Friday Agreement has transformed relations on these islands over the past 16 years. Securing peace and progressing Anglo-Irish relations over those years has been reflected in this week’s historic State visit.

“The violence that marred the north of the island over three decades has been brought to an end by the hard work of committed individuals who would not take no for an answer. These statesmen reflected the deep will of the overwhelming majority of the people in Ireland to achieving a real and lasting peace. 

“As someone who grew up in the border region where terrorism was an ever present threat the advancement over the past 16 years has been remarkable. Even back then we could not have realised the immense progress that would be made.”

Commentating on the need for further progress Deputy Smith said, “Real challenges remain to be resolved, but the Good Friday Agreement has stood firm against the test of time and has indeed brought major benefits to all the people of this island.

“Now is the time to drive on the peace process and maximise the potential of the Good Friday Agreement. Both governments need to show the necessary leadership and take a hands-on approach in progressing the Haas Proposals to a satisfactory conclusion,” Deputy Smith concluded.