The last months, weeks and days have seen accelerating discussions, involving the DUP for the first time, about a comprehensive agreement which would see all outstanding matters dealt with and the Good Friday Agreement implemented in full.

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

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

When others stood idly by, you and your families gave your all, in defence of a risen people and in pursuit of Irish freedom and unity.

A real possibility now exists for a Government that is not led by either Fine Gael or Fianna Fáil

The Good Friday Agreement and the basic rights and entitlements of citizens that are enshrined within it must be defended and actively promoted by London and Dublin.

For over 30 years, the IRA showed that the British government could not rule Ireland on its own terms.