"Northern Ireland, without exaggeration, now represents a beacon of light to a world in how decades-long conflict can be resolved and reconciliation fostered and continued,"
"In the world unfortunately that is ever more consumed with war and militarism, Northern Ireland's lesson is increasingly important and increasingly significant and it is a lesson that we should all tell the world, that peace is normal and that war is not normal and that peace is possible."
"It is the collective responsibility on all of us to address properly the needs and the questions of the families most affected, wherever they are, with integrity and a determination to deliver truth, accountability and justice for them and for society,"
"As President, I give an absolute commitment that I will ensure, from my point of view, in my work, that all voices from all backgrounds are heard, regardless of gender, age, belief, ethnicity or nationality."
Different aspirations for the future exist across the island of Ireland and an unfinished story remains. A meeting in north Belfast with Northern Ireland's First Minister and deputy First Minister was described as joyful, interesting and forward-looking. Northern Ireland represents an example of how decades-long conflict can be resolved and reconciliation fostered and continued. Peace is normal and war is not normal; peace is possible even as the world becomes more consumed with war and militarism. The Troubles left deep marks and many continue to live with grief and pain every day. Families most affected require truth, accountability and justice. All voices from all backgrounds must be heard. Article Three expresses a firm will to unite people in harmony and friendship.
Read at Irish Independent
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