Gerry Adams
In the past I have defended the right of the IRA to engage in armed struggle. I did so because there was no alternative for those who would not bend the knee, or turn a blind eye to oppression, or for those who wanted a national republic.
Gerry AdamsThe Ireland we live in today is also very different place from 15 years ago. There is now an all-Ireland agenda with huge potential.
Gerry AdamsA DUP demand for the humiliation of republicans is not only unacceptable, it will not happen and it has no place in a process of peace making.
Gerry AdamsThe way forward is by building political support for republican and democratic objectives across Ireland and by winning support for these goals internationally.
Gerry AdamsRepublican patience with how unionism deals with the political institutions, and with key issues like equality and human rights, will be tested because, obviously, there will be a battle a day on these matters. So lets face up to all of this with our eyes wide open.
Gerry AdamsThe days of humiliation, of second-class citizens and of inequality are over and gone forever.
Gerry AdamsSinn Fein has productively taken the example of South Africa and, as we develop the peace process, we continue to use examples from South Africa.
Gerry AdamsSinn Fein has the potential and capacity to become the vehicle for the attainment of republican objectives.
Gerry AdamsHugging trees has a calming effect on me. I'm talking about enormous trees that will be there when we are all dead and gone. I've hugged trees in every part of this little island.
Gerry AdamsYour ability as republican volunteers, to rise to this challenge will mean that the two governments and others cannot easily hide from their obligations and their responsibility to resolve these problems.
Gerry AdamsYour determination, selflessness and courage have brought the freedom struggle towards its fulfilment.
Gerry AdamsThe catalyst for much of this change is the growing support for republicanism.
Gerry AdamsIn this context the British and Irish governments will have to promote a new, imaginative and dynamic alternative in which both governments will share power in the north.
Gerry AdamsI understand fully that the IRA's most recent positive contribution to the peace process was in the context of a comprehensive agreement.
Gerry AdamsThe Irish Republican Army has kept every commitment made by its leadership.
Gerry AdamsFor over 30 years, the IRA showed that the British government could not rule Ireland on its own terms.
Gerry AdamsSuch decisions will be far reaching and difficult. But you never lacked courage in the past. Your courage is now needed for the future.
Gerry AdamsWhen others stood idly by, you and your families gave your all, in defence of a risen people and in pursuit of Irish freedom and unity.
Gerry Adams
