    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [October 13, 1994]
    [Page 1747]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Cease-Fire in Northern Ireland
    October 13, 1994

        I welcome today's announcement by the Combined Loyalist Military
    Command in Northern Ireland declaring an end to its campaign of
    violence. The cease-fire announcement by the IRA on August 31 and
    today's announcement by Loyalist paramilitaries present the best hope
    for peace in a generation in Northern Ireland. The parties must now
    build on this historic step forward and enter into negotiations for a
    lasting settlement.
        Prime Minister John Major of the United Kingdom and Prime Minister
    Albert Reynolds of Ireland deserve great credit for their leadership and
    persistence in pressing for progress. The principles put forward in
    their Downing Street Declaration provide an important foundation for a
    just and lasting peace. I look forward to the next steps in the process,
    including the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation proposed by Prime
    Minister Reynolds and the roundtable talks convened by the Irish and
    British Governments with all involved parties.
        I am pleased that the United States has been able to contribute to
    the peace process in Northern Ireland. We continue to stand ready to
    assist in achieving a negotiated, democratic settlement supported by
    both communities in Northern Ireland.