Addressing SDLP
members at a special meeting held in Ballycastle to
discuss the
Mr Farren said:
“While there are difficulties for some like the DUP there is a
huge public expectation that these should be overcome and not allowed prevent
progress towards restoration in March. It’s obvious that much of the DUP
protest and threats are hiding internal rumblings led by the likes of Jim Allister.
“The DUP like Sinn
Fein must move to accept all of the requirements set down by the Good Friday
Agreement and repeated in the St Andrews Agreement if we are to build a truly
inclusive and reconciled society.
“A partnership
Executive giving full support to the rule of law working for the economic
prosperity of all is the best hope for us all.
“Otherwise the two
governments will take over and make their own decisions ignoring local
politicians. That would be the worst situation in which to find ourselves and
would put back political progress for many, many years.
“The next few weeks
will be crucial. The parties must tell the governments by 10th
November whether they accept the agreement or not. Sinn Fein must indicate that
the party is ready to accept the PSNI and to call on its members to support and
join the service.
“The chance is now
clearly there for those who want political progress. It is also clear that it
is the best as well as the last chance and must be taken if we are not to
betray the hopes placed in us by the electorate.”