‘Dissidents’ urged by Gerry Adams to ‘embrace a peaceful way forward’

» John Hedges

An Phoblacht Editor

‘The challenge for thinking republicans is to find ways to engage with and to listen to the concerns and ambitions of our unionist neighbours.’

ARMED GROUPS described by the media as ‘dissident republicans’ were today urged by Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD “to show courage and in the spirit of the 1916 Proclamation to embrace a peaceful way forward” in the run-up to the anniversary of the Easter Rising.

The Sinn Féin leader was speaking in Dundalk at Friday lunchtime with Newry and Armagh MP Conor Murphy and MLAs and councillors from both sides of the Border at the local launch of Sinn Féin’s campaign for a Border poll.

The Louth TD said "the disastrous impact of partition is nowhere more evident than along the Border corridor”.

He then specifically addressed those “who are usually described as dissident”. He said:

“I urge all republicans and nationalists, whatever their opinion of the Peace Process and irrespective of which political party or tendency they support, to seize this opportunity to advance republican and nationalist objectives.

“I would especially ask those who are usually described as ‘dissident’ to recognise the potential that this initiative holds.

“There is now a democratic and peaceful way to bring about Irish unity. There is no reason whatever for any group to engage in or promote or support violent actions.

“The challenge for thinking republicans is to find ways to engage with and to listen to the concerns and ambitions of our unionist neighbours.

“As the anniversary of the Easter Rising approaches, I want to appeal directly to groups which claim to follow in that tradition to reflect on their position.

 “Now is the time for them to show courage and in the spirit of the 1916 Proclamation to embrace a peaceful way forward.

“This is a phase of political activity that is about persuasion; it’s about democratic conversations and winning support for Irish unity.

“Violent actions will not assist this process. Violent actions will make the task of achieving a Yes vote more difficult. So, consider the options. Examine the possibilities. And don’t miss this opportunity.

“I believe Irish unity makes sense. I believe it makes political and economic sense and that it is in the best interests of the people of these islands.

“The Good Friday Agreement provides a legislative, peaceful and democratic route to Irish unity. A Border poll is the means.

“So, let the people decide!”