H. Res. 482

Floor Speech

H. RES. 482 -- (Extensions of Remarks - August 04, 2007)

* Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, today I rise in strong support of H. Res. 482. This resolution expresses the House of Representatives support for the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, all leaders and parties involved in making this agreement a reality, and the elections that were held on May 8, 2007.

* As an American with Irish ancestry, I had the honor to travel to Northern Ireland to meet with women, both Catholic and Protestant, who continue to work tirelessly to move peace forward. It has also been my great pleasure to host and mentor women from Northern Ireland in my congressional office, as they take part in parliamentary workshops through the International Women's Democracy Center.

* The negotiations, subsequent efforts and implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, demonstrate the ability of people to come together and achieve partnership out of conflict. Moving peace forward in Northern Ireland, as well as in other areas of the world, requires confidence in the judicial system to ensure justice and fairness for all citizens and confidence in the ability to enforce the laws that are passed.

* History has proven that in order to achieve an accomplishment as monumental as this the willingness to compromise by parties involved is key to attaining a positive result. With Parliamentary elections held recently the government of Northern Ireland has begun to see the fruits of its labor. So many others like former Senator George Mitchell and Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair should be incredibly proud of the hard work to bring peace and end the conflict.

* The United States stands with the people of Northern Ireland in their search for democracy, justice, and peace. My hopes and prayers are with the people of Northern Ireland as they continue on this journey. I am proud to stand in support of this resolution, and in support of efforts to strengthen democracy and rule of law in Northern Ireland. I urge my colleagues to join me.

Source