1981 IRA prisoner Bobby Sands begins a hunger strike in Maze Prison near Belfast to protest his status as an ordinary criminal instead of recognition as a political prisoner. The United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland sign the Anglo-Irish Agreement, which gives the Irish Republic a consultative role on behalf of Catholics in some matters concerning Northern Ireland. At their funeral, loyalist gunman Michael Stone opens fire and throws grenades at mourners, killing three and wounding 50. A few days later, at the funeral procession of one of the three victims, two British soldiers drive near the cortege and are beaten and fatally shot by a mob. An investigation into the case found police misconduct, coerced confessions and fabrication of evidence.
Talks end without progress the next year.
The move signaled the Clinton administration's belief that Adams was working toward peace. Initiatives by British and Irish governments lead to cease-fires by both the IRA and, later, Protestant Unionist militia groups. Leaders of Protestant and Catholic groups meet in October, and British Prime Minister Tony Blair holds landmark talks with Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams. On Good Friday, April 10, the main political parties of both sides reach a historic agreement that, among other things, returns self-rule to Northern Ireland. It is the worst incident of sectarian violence in 30 years.