TODAY, is Ireland's historic day of destiny - when its people north and south of the border vote on the Good Friday deal to determine the future of Northern Ireland.

And, after a generation of bloodshed and centuries of sectarian hate, it is, in many ways, miraculous that this juncture has now been reached - when both sides of the divide are offered and may seize a formula for peace.

True, it is and must inevitably be a compromise that is laden with many doubts and uncertainties and provisions that are hard to swallow.

But what is the alternative? The people of Ireland have seen what it is for 30 years - futile killing.

It is for that reason alone, we must pray that today they will vote 'Yes' - decidedly so - turning their backs on the past with all its bigotry and work hard for a peace that lasts.

Previous news story

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.