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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…” quote by Mary Robinson
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“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.”

Mary Robinson

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.

Key Takeaway

Focus on personal diplomacy for peace.

Themes

peace leadership reconciliation

Mood

hopeful determined

Type

inspirational political

When to use this quote

  • community events
  • grassroots dialogue
  • cross‑border projects

Key Concepts

diplomacy friendship political limits

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can individuals influence peace?
  • What limits exist without formal authority?
A Different Perspective

Personal outreach may lack policy impact.

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