    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book I)]
    [January 13, 1997]
    [Page 33]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Multiparty Talks on the Future of Northern Ireland
    January 13, 1997

        I welcome the resumption of the multiparty talks on the future of
    Northern Ireland in Belfast today. As the new year begins, I urge the
    British and Irish Governments and the leaders of Northern Ireland's
    political parties to press forward with their efforts to achieve a
    lasting settlement that will ensure peace, justice, prosperity, and
    opportunity for the people they represent. I am proud of the
    contribution that Senator George Mitchell and his two cochairmen are
    making to these important negotiations.
        I am deeply outraged by the end of the IRA cease-fire, which
    threatens to plunge Northern Ireland into a senseless spiral of
    violence. As we start a new year, I call again on the IRA to restore its
    cease-fire immediately. I have always believed that the Belfast talks
    will have a better chance of success if all the elected parties,
    including Sinn Fein, are at the table, but that can only happen if the
    IRA declares and implements a cease-fire in both words and deeds. I
    remain convinced that if such an action is taken, substantive and
    inclusive talks would soon follow.
        As I saw during my visit to Northern Ireland just over a year ago,
    the overwhelming majority of the people yearn for a just and lasting
    settlement and an end to the conflict that has divided them for so long.
    I am committed to supporting the courageous people of both traditions
    who are working toward that goal. And I urge the loyalists to maintain
    their cease-fire and refrain from descending into a cycle of escalating
    violence.
        Sadly, sectarian clashes during the summer revealed again the depth
    of suspicion and animosity between the two communities of Northern
    Ireland. When we look back in another year's time, I pray that we will
    call to mind images of hope and promise, reconciliation and peace in
    Northern Ireland. My administration remains committed to supporting the
    British and Irish Governments, the political leaders, and the people of
    Northern Ireland as they work to reach a just and lasting settlement.