Finian McGrath
Question:260 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the three main obstacles blocking the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11367/03]
Written Answers. - Northern Ireland Issues.
While it has not yet proved possible to overcome the obstacles that would allow for the early restoration of the devolved institutions in Northern Ireland, demonstrable progress has been made over recent months in advancing the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. These advances are reflected in the joint declaration and associated documents published by both Governments on 1 May.
Following the meeting of the Taoiseach and Prime Minister in Dublin on 6 May, both governments have agreed that those aspects of the joint declaration that are not contingent on acts of completion by others will now be taken forward. These include the key areas of policing, criminal justice, equality, human rights and some aspects of security normalisation. The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference will have an important role to play in reviewing the process of implementation of the joint declaration.
Both Governments will also continue their efforts to address the underlying deficits of trusts and confidence that have given rise to the current difficulties. This requires an unambiguous commitment to a definitive end to all paramilitary activity. It also requires an unequivocal commitment to the full and inclusive operation of all of the institutions of the Agreement. We will continue, in dialogue with the parties, to seek to achieve the necessary clarity and certainty in regard to these outstanding issues.