Gary McMichael, lead negotiator for the Ulster Democratic Party, delivered an opening statement on 7 October 1997, emphasizing the historic opportunity to build a new society in Northern Ireland based on fairness, equality, and mutual respect. He stressed the importance of addressing the fundamental relationship between the divided communities within Northern Ireland, asserting that peace hinges on the consent and support of its people. McMichael criticized past attempts at political coercion, such as the Anglo-Irish Agreement, and called for a consensus-driven settlement that acknowledges the legitimate concerns of both unionists and nationalists. He outlined the UDP's proposals for devolved legislative government, a written constitution, a Bill of Rights, a supreme court, and comprehensive cooperation arrangements within the UK and the British Isles, aiming to create a peaceful and progressive future for all communities in Northern Ireland.
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