Since that time. I have worked with my colleagues as one of the cochairmen of the Ad Hoc Committee on Irish Affairs. to realize the goals of peace. justice. freedom. and an end to all discrimination in Northern Ireland. The ad hoc committee was extremely encouraged by five promises candidate Clinton made to the IrishAmerican community during his campaign: First. to support the MacBride Principleson the Federal and State levelsand other efforts to end antiCatholic disc.mlnation in the workplace. second. to appoint a special envoy to Northern Ireland to facilitate the peace process. third. to implement an equitable visa policy which does not deny protection to Irish political refugees. including granting a visa to Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams. and fourth. to improve human rights and help bring about a lasting solution to the strife in Northern Ireland. To date. unfortunately. President Clinton has failed to take action to fulfill these important pledges. Certainly a solution which has eluded men not just for decades. but for centuries. will not be easy. But peace and justice in Northern Ireland are possible if leadership is exhibited. policies are developed to end the great economic injustices there. and all violence is ended. President Clinton has an opportunity to exhibit the necessary leadership by appointing a special envoy. granting a visa to Gerry Adams and advocating for passage of MacBride Principles legislation. Peace is possible. and I will help by continuing to press the President to fulfill these promises.
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