The full implementation of the Belfast agreement is the only way to fulfil the aims of Irish Republicanism, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said today.
He said the Irish people, north and south, had not voted for an armed peace, when the agreement was signed seven years ago.
"Or for a criminal peace. They voted for democratic peace. We must have closure to build that democratic peace. Closure on decommissioning. An end to all illegal activities. No more threats and intimidation, " he said.
Mr Ahern was speaking at his party's annual commemoration of the 1916 Easter Rising.
Mr Ahern said it was often forgotten that the Easter Rising only took place after the democratic wishes of the Irish people for self-government had been systematically frustrated for over 30 years.
Mr Ahern said there was now only a place in the government of the Irish republic and the government of Northern Ireland for people who were unequivocally democrats.
He added that there must be a sincere and complete abandonment of violence and law-breaking by all paramilitary organisations.
"The prospects of resuming fruitful dialogue depend on that answer. Rebuilding trust, which has been seriously damaged, will not be quick and it will not be easy," he said.