With the Good Friday Agreement 25th anniversary conference at Queen's University Belfast winding up and President Joe Biden's visit to Ireland and his keynote speech in Belfast still echoing, the Ancient Order of Hibernians has issued a statement recognizing "the tremendous progress that has been made in Northern Ireland" since the agreement's signing.
The agreement, said the Hibernians, had brought about "an unprecedented era of peace and stability, and its positive impact on the people of Northern Ireland cannot be overstated."
However, the Hibernians said they were conscious of the fact that the GFA faces challenges.
Said the statement: We cannot let the significant achievements made over the past 25 years distract us from the significant challenges and threats the Good Friday Agreement and a lasting peace still faces.
"The ongoing political deadlock in Northern Ireland as the Democratic Unionist Party, the only party not to sign the Good Friday Agreement, fails to participate in government over its disagreement with how Westminster has implemented the Brexit the DUP campaigned for.
"Moves by the British government to enact an extraordinary amnesty for murders committed by its agents during the conflict in Northern Ireland seek to deny the justice that the Good Friday Agreement promises. There are continuing threats of violence from dissident groups. All this serves as reminders of the work that still needs to be done to fully implement the agreement."
The statement added: "Given these challenges, it is more important than ever for the United States to remain engaged in Northern Ireland. The U.S. played a vital role in brokering the Good Friday Agreement. Its continued support will be crucial in ensuring that the agreement remains a cornerstone of peace and stability in the region.
"As we reflect on the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, we must renew our commitment to the principles of peace, reconciliation, and respect for human rights that underpin the agreement. By doing so, we can build a brighter future for the people of Northern Ireland and ensure that the progress made over the past 25 years is not lost."
