30th November 2002

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Focus must be on implementation of Agreement

Sinn Fein Chief Negotiator and MP for Mid Ulster Martin McGuinness speaking at a meeting of the party's Ard Chomhairle in Dublin this morning said "those aspects of the Agreement relating to people entitlements - human rights, equality, an accountable police service - must not be reduced to quid pro quo wrangling. They are basic rights to which all people are entitled and must be treated as such." Mr. McGuinness said:

"This morning myself and Gerry Adams have been updating the Ard Chomhairle on the meetings to date of the parties and the two governments aimed at resolving what is a very serious crisis in the peace process.

"Our focus at this time is on getting the British government to spell out clearly how they intend to put back the institutions and implement the Agreement in full.

"We have to remember that what is being sought here from the British government are basic entitlements not concessions and whatever else is happening people are entitled to equality, human rights, an accountable policing service. And I said that at the all-party talks this week."

Dismissing stories in the British media this morning Mr. McGuinness said:

"People need to be aware that these unfounded stories from anonymous sources not only have no basis in fact but detract from the talks that are currently taking place. It is politics and political dialogue which will resolve this current crisis."

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