A GROUP of influential congressmen yesterday introduced a resolution calling for the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and "expressing hope for the continued success of the Northern Ireland peace process".
It comes ahead of April's 25th anniversary of the signing of the accord and calls for "steps taken to reconcile past violence committed during the Troubles".
The resolution sponsors include Democrats Bill Keating, Brendan Boyle and Derek Kilmer, along with Republicans Brian Fitzpatrick, Mike Kelly, Joe Wilson and David Rouzer.
"The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement represents the cornerstone of peace in Northern Ireland and remains the bedrock on which today’s government institutions and cross-community initiatives lay,” said Congressman Keating, a former chair of the Subcommittee on Europe and Member of the Friends of Ireland Caucus.
"I strongly believe in its success as well as its full implementation, including accountability and justice for the victims of violence, and I look forward to upcoming celebrations surrounding the 25th anniversary of its signing."
Congressman Fitzpatrick said the 1998 agreement "provides a holistic approach for peace" in the north, as well as for the region’s economic, cultural, and political prosperity.
"Now more than ever before, the United States has a responsibility to support the resolution of outstanding multilateral trade issues, the ongoing reconciliation process for victims of violence and their families, and the return to government in Northern Ireland," he said.
"As we approach this 25th anniversary, I look forward to engaging with our allies and partners in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the European Union on how together, we can safeguard the peace for generations to come."
