The policy of the EU, including Ireland . . . is directed against security forces cynically and brutally fighting a part of their own population.
- The Minister for Defence, Mr Smith, on the Kosovo crisis
It is better to be honest and say that this was a political decision without legal authority than to pretend there is a spurious legal authority when none exists.
- Mr John Bruton
We should get off the fence and say politely but firmly to our friends in Britain and the US that we do not consider military action to be appropriate at this time or in these circumstances.
- Mr Proinsias De Rossa
The description of Ireland's position as between a rock and a hard place is a pathetic response to the present situation.
- Mr Michael D. Higgins on remarks by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Andrews