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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release May 23, 1998

                         MESSAGE BY THE PRESIDENT
                            ON THE PASSAGE OF
              THE NORTHERN IRELAND PEACE ACCORDS REFERENDUM

THE PRESIDENT: Today we are rejoicing at the news from across the Atlantic. The people of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have decisively approved the April 10th peace accord. It is the culmination of a springtime of peace, and it must be the beginning of a long season of happiness and prosperity.

I salute the leaders who stood for hope against fear, the future against the past, unity against division. Most of all, I congratulate the Irish people for having the courage and wisdom to vote for a brighter future for their children.

As of today, peace is no longer a dream, it is a reality. You have indeed joined hope to history. All over America, the eyes of Irish Americans, and indeed all our peace-loving citizens, are smiling. We are very proud of you.

We pledge that we will work with you to build a better future for all of your people and ours.

END