[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 14, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E544]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF THE HOUSE FOR THE GOOD FRIDAY AGREEMENT

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                               speech of

                         HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 13, 2007

  Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 222, 
the Good Friday Agreement for Northern Ireland. .
  The United States stands committed to a peaceful resolution of the 
conflict which has plagued Northern Ireland for the past quarter 
century. The last twelve months have indeed seen historic developments 
which have raised hopes that at long last the parties to the conflict 
in Northern Ireland are working together to forge reconciliation.
  Today, I strongly support H. Res. 222, to show strong support for the 
1998 Good Friday Agreement as the blueprint for a lasting peace in 
Northern Ireland. The measure continues to support the St. Andrews 
Agreement of October 2006 and commends British Prime Minister Tony 
Blair and Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern for their leadership and 
persistence in seeking a peaceful resolution in Northern Ireland.
  Mr. Speaker, we must continue to advocate for the achievement of 
peace, justice, human rights and political stability in Northern 
Ireland. That is why I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 222.

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