    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [May 23, 1998]
    [Page 835]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 835]]

    Statement on the Passage of the Northern Ireland Peace Accord Referendum
    May 23, 1998

        Today history truly joined with hope in Ireland as the people of
    Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic cast their ballots decisively in
    favor of the April 10 peace accord and a new political arrangement for
    Northern Ireland. I join all Americans in congratulating the people of
    Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for seizing this unique
    opportunity for a lasting peace.
        I pledge that my administration will work with Northern Ireland's
    leaders as they seek to transform the promise of the accord into a
    reality, with new democratic institutions and new economic opportunities
    for all of Northern Ireland's people. Working through the International
    Fund for Ireland and the private sector, we will help the people seize
    the opportunities that peace will bring to attract new investment to
    create new factories, workplaces, and jobs, and establish new centers of
    learning to prepare for the 21st century.
        Today's vote is a beacon to peoples around the globe in places where
    strife prevails and peace seems remote. You have set an example for the
    world and established a strong foundation for a future of lasting peace.