    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [January 24, 1996]
    [Page 96]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Northern Ireland Peace Process
    January 24, 1996

        I welcome the report released today by the international body on
    decommissioning that was set up by the British and Irish Governments as
    one track of the twin-track approach for moving the Northern Ireland
    peace process forward. I am proud that the international body was
    chaired by a distinguished American, Senator George Mitchell. Senator
    Mitchell and his colleagues, General de Chastelain of Canada and Mr.
    Holkeri of Finland, have made a significant and positive contribution to
    the peace process, and I join the British and Irish Governments in
    expressing gratitude for their service.
        The international body's report is based on the submissions it
    received from relevant and interested parties in the United Kingdom and
    Ireland. Together with the political track, I believe it will be a
    valuable tool for the Irish and British Governments as they work to
    reach the goal of all-party talks.
        I encourage all the parties to use the report of the international
    body to advance the peace process. Its recommendations do not reflect
    the views of any one party, but the considered judgment of its members,
    who want only to help the people of Northern Ireland achieve a just and
    lasting peace. Their recommendations deserve serious and open-minded
    consideration by all who share that goal.
        The United States stands by its commitment to support the efforts of
    the British and Irish Governments, the political parties, and the people
    of Northern Ireland to create a bright and peaceful future for
    themselves and their children.