Secretary of State delivers speech marking Good Friday Agreement

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris has delivered a speech at Queen's University Belfast Agreement 25 Conference, marking 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement.

Heaton-Harris said: "The truly historic 25th anniversary of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement is an enormous achievement, and something that should be deservedly marked, recognised and indeed celebrated."

He recognised those involved in the peace process, including Tony Blair, Bertie Ahern, John Major, Albert Reynolds, Lord Trimble and the Progressive Unionist Party’s David Ervine and John and Pat Hume.

The Secretary of State talked about the freedoms that have come since the agreement, "Pre the Agreement, small, ordinary acts that so many of us take for granted that would then have been difficult or a cause for concern, something your mother would have worried about, the freedom to stay in town after work for a pint with a friend, or to head out for a meal with your family.

"The freedom to walk down the street without the fear of becoming caught up in some sort of disturbance. The freedom for young people to grow up and live happy, successful lives here in Northern Ireland and not be forced to leave their home in order to know stability or security. It is a testament to the success of the Agreement that so many here now can exercise these freedoms."

He also stated that the government is committed to protecting the Good Friday agreements and that he intends to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Irish Government.

However, Heaton-Harris also mentioned that work still needs to be done, highlighting the recent shooting of DCI John Caldwell, the disturbances over the Easter weekend and the ongoing paramilitary activity.

He concluded: "Distinguished Guests, Northern Ireland has made remarkable progress in the 25 years since the Agreement’s signing. If these 25 years have been about peace, then the next 25 must be about delivering a more prosperous, more reconciled future for everyone in Northern Ireland. We must look forward to what is possible, just as we must reflect to remind and educate ourselves about exactly what is at stake.

"The Government stands ready to support Northern Ireland to fully deliver on the ambition of the Agreement and I look forward to working with everyone here, everyone everywhere, in making that an achievement we can all be proud of."

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