The agreement offers an advanced system of government, that is very democratic, and that affords legitimacy for any main viewpoint in a politically divided society. These are powerful gains. The inclusiveness of the peace process has been the key to its success. Every elected member who takes part in government will be bound by their pledge of office to fundamental democratic principles. Both governments with the help of the parties will see that those are upheld.
Participation is a much better guarantee of stability than exclusion.
The decommissioning of paramilitary weapons by May 2000 is part of the bargain set out in the Good Friday agreement. An executive is being formed on the clear understanding that that part of the bargain will be kept. The Irish Government is firmly convinced it will be. On the other hand, we cannot assume that decommissioning will ever take place, let alone by May 2000, if an inclusive government is not established. The timetable has become very tight indeed, and should not be pushed out any further.