[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000-2001, Book III)]
[December 11, 2000]
[Page 2683]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 2683]]


Statement on the Termination of Deportation Proceedings in Support of




the Northern Ireland Peace Process
December 11, 2000

    I strongly support the Attorney General's 
decision, at the request of the Secretary of State, to take action to terminate deportation proceedings 
against six individuals and to refrain from initiating proceedings 
against three others. All nine individuals had served sentences in the 
United Kingdom for activity connected with the IRA but are physically 
present in the United States. While in no way approving or condoning 
their past criminal acts, I believe that removing the threat of 
deportation for these individuals will contribute to the peace process 
in Northern Ireland. The Attorney General's decision is consistent with 
steps taken by the British Government under the Good Friday accord to 
release prisoners in Northern Ireland and reintegrate them into normal 
society as part of a process of reconciliation. Her decision will also 
reinforce efforts by the Governments and the parties in Northern Ireland 
to implement in full all aspects of the Good Friday accord.