17 May 2000

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Gerry Adams highlights nationalist frustration

Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams MP has said there is considerable frustration among supporters of the Good Friday Agreement ``about the turn of events in recent days''.

Speaking to reporters today, Mr Adams said:

``Twelve days ago, following weeks of discussions, we secured the joint statement and joint letter from the two governments which together set out how they intended implementing the Good Friday Agreement. In response, there was an unprecedented IRA statement which has been widely applauded.

``The Ulster Unionist Party's response, after an initial welcome, has been to raise other issues, to seek more concessions and to open up other negotiations. While I think that this is the wrong way for them to do business, I also have to say that they have been encouraged to pursue this course by the attitude of the British Government.

``While Mr Trimble has a clear responsibility to lead his party in his own way, the two governments have a responsibility to keep to and to implement the commitments they have made.''

ENDS

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