RTÉ very briefly notes it, but the PA report has more detail. The joint statement from the governments yesterday was welcomed by the US President, naturally enough, and, as well as calling on all parties to demonstrate leadership, the statement from the Whitehouse makes particular mention of policing and “an unequivocal commitment to the rule of law and the renunciation of all paramilitary and criminal activities.” Update To note, that particular line is not included in the BBC report. Other reactions hereThe full statement –
United States Welcomes Joint Statement by the British and Irish Prime Ministers
We welcome today’s announcement by Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern on restoring the Northern Ireland Assembly established by the Good Friday Agreement.
Today is an opportunity for all in Northern Ireland to take control of their future and bring the political process to a successful completion this year. President Bush calls on all parties to demonstrate leadership and seize this opportunity to work together to restore the power-sharing Government and resolve outstanding issues. In particular, we urge full support for civilian policing throughout Northern Ireland and an unequivocal commitment to the rule of law and the renunciation of all paramilitary and criminal activities.
We remain steadfast in our support of the peace process and the efforts of the British and Irish Governments to achieve a lasting peace under the principles of the Good Friday Agreement.
