[Sinn Fein]

19 December 1997


Walk-out threat an attempt to impose agenda

Statement from Sinn Fein Mid-Ulster MP, Martin McGuinness responding to the threat by unionists to walk out of the talks at Castle Buildings.

Mr. McGuinness said:

``The threat by Unionists to walk out of the talks at Castle Buildings is an attempt by them to impose a unionist agenda on the peace process. It ties in with the attitude adopted by David Trimble during the last few weeks at the talks when he blocked agreement on the issues for resolution.''

Mr. McGuinness continued:

``The unionists are manufacturing an excuse about ``the track of concessions'' to republicans which is obvious nonsense. The British government haven't released any political prisoners in the six counties. The Irish government released political prisoners in a welcome move to strengthen the peace process. The British government should follow their example.

Mr McGuinness concluded:

``The unionist party should end its policy of trying to wrreck the talks from inside and begin a policy of engaging with the other partes. There is no other way forward and ultimately the unionists will realise this. Until they do the British government must not cave in to the pressure of the unionists.''


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