Boards Quote by Mary Robinson
“I felt when I was elected that the most important task on this island [Ireland] was to extend the hand of friendship right across the board to the people of Northern Ireland, to have the beginnings of a real peace process. In consequence, although I have no role in intergovernmental talks or political discussions, that would be my very top priority.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Inaugural Address, President of Ireland, 1990
She prioritized building peace with Northern Ireland, emphasizing friendship over politics despite limited formal authority.
In simple terms: Peace building through personal outreach, not official talks.
Focus on personal diplomacy for peace.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- community events
- grassroots dialogue
- cross‑border projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals influence peace?
- What limits exist without formal authority?
Personal outreach may lack policy impact.