The real test of our country will be how we respond to this new reality. The Progressive Democrats are a liberal party. There may be some cheap votes in racism. But we're not going to go after them. In Government, we are working to create a more open and tolerant society to the benefit of all.
Tolerance is also the key to a peaceful future in Northern Ireland.
As a party in government we applaud particularly the role of the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, and the role of our own Liz O'Donnell at Foreign Affairs. We've come too far to let it all slip away now. Let's seize the moment. The prosperity that we have achieved in Government brings its own challenges. Our success has brought with it an unprecedented demand for housing, for public transport, for better roads.