[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
[October 23, 2001]
[Pages 1294-1295]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Northern Ireland
October 23, 2001

    I warmly welcome the announcement by the Chairman of the Independent 
International Commission on Decommissioning, General John de 
Chastelain, that a significant act of 
decommissioning has been carried out by the IRA and verified by the 
Commission. This is an historic step by the IRA. The people of Northern 
Ireland are now measurably closer to the lasting peace which they richly 
deserve.
    I hope all paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland will build on 
today's events,

[[Page 1295]]

striving to achieve the total disarmament called for by the Good Friday 
agreement. I know I speak for all Americans when I express my heartfelt 
appreciation to General de Chastelain for 
his continuing efforts in support of the peace process. This act of 
decommissioning will, I hope, lead to the full functioning of the 
political institutions of the Good Friday agreement. All leaders should 
be prepared to intensify their efforts to resolve remaining outstanding 
issues.

Note: This statement was released on the White House web site.