McCain Statement on IRA Announcement

MCCAIN STATEMENT ON IRA ANNOUNCEMENT

Senator McCain released the following statement in response to the Irish Republican Army's announcement today that it would disband its weapons in an effort to end the violence in Northern Ireland:

"I welcome the Irish Republican Army's announcement that it is officially ending its campaign of violence. This promise, along with the IRA's pledge to fully disarm, has the potential to spark a new, brighter day in the difficult history of Northern Ireland. The real test, however, will be one of actions, not words. The people of Northern Ireland and America will watch closely to see if the IRA indeed refrains from every form of violence and crime, and whether it engages in complete, verifiable disarmament. These critical steps are necessary for peace and stability to ultimately triumph in that proud and beautiful land. The people of Northern Ireland deserve no less."

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