But I also hold the very strong view that republicans need to lead by example.

It will always be a battle a day between those who want maximum change and those who want to maintain the status quo.

Armed struggle is a necessary and morally correct form of resistance in the Six Counties against a government whose presence is rejected by the vast majority of the Irish people There are those who tell us that the British government will not be moved by armed struggle. As has been said before, the history of Ireland and of British colonial involvement throughout the world tells us that they will not be moved by anything else.

Sinn Fein has the potential and capacity to become the vehicle for the attainment of republican objectives.

In the past I have defended the right of the IRA to engage in armed struggle. I did so because there was no alternative for those who would not bend the knee, or turn a blind eye to oppression, or for those who wanted a national republic.

It's been a long time coming but the reality is that this process is at a crossroads.

Sinn Fein has demonstrated the ability to play a leadership role as part of a popular movement towards peace, equality and justice.