    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book II)]
    [August 30, 1995]
    [Page 1273]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the First Anniversary of the Cease-Fire in Northern Ireland
    August 30, 1995

        Tomorrow marks the first anniversary of the Irish Republican Army's
    cease-fire in Northern Ireland, joined 6 weeks later by the Combined
    Loyalist Military Command. These historic decisions opened a door that
    had been closed to the people of Northern Ireland for too long--the
    gateway to peace. On this anniversary, I urge the parties to build on
    the important work of the past year to secure a just and lasting
    settlement to a conflict that has cost so many lives.
        We owe much of the progress to the courage and determination of
    Prime Minister Major and Taoiseach Bruton and their continued
    willingness to take risks for peace. I also salute the people of
    Northern Ireland for their extraordinary perseverance and their
    dedication to the cause of peace. They have endured violence with so
    much dignity, and now the future that they have long deserved is within
    reach.
        I am looking forward to visiting a peaceful Northern Ireland later
    this year and paying personal tribute to those who have worked so hard
    to bring about this new day. I welcome the progress made in recent
    months toward reducing barriers, alleviating tension, and promoting
    reconciliation. Much, however, remains to be done. To advance the goal
    of peace, I urge both republicans and loyalists to do their part and
    seriously address the issue of decommissioning paramilitary weapons.
    This is an essential step toward banishing once and for all the specter
    of violence that has haunted Ireland. I urge the parties to sit down
    together soon to discuss their aspirations for the future as well as
    their fears and differences. As I have said before, I would be pleased
    if talks were underway by the time of my visit.
        As we look back on a year in which the bombs and guns have been
    silenced, I hope all the parties will reaffirm their commitment to build
    a peace in Northern Ireland for generations. The United States stands
    ready to support the people of Northern Ireland and the British and
    Irish Governments in that effort.