White House visitor
Adams' trans-Atlantic tour a positive step for peace in the U.K.

Those who object to President Clinton's invitation of Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams into the United States show their small-mindedness regarding the political group's current activities.

The cease-fire that has been called in Northern Ireland must be supported. The violence that has wracked the small island nation for 30 years has been called off. The United States must do something to reward the efforts of the Irish Republican Army that created the cease-fire.

By allowing Adams into the country, the United States has encouraged peace by showing Sinn Fein and the IRA that it is willing to listen -- as long as they remain peaceful. The goals of the IRA are commendable, however the use of violence has no place in its fight for independence.

For once in his career Clinton is standing up for his decision and not waffling on an issue that he has brought to the forefront. Clinton should continue to maintain diplomatic relations with both the United Kingdom and the IRA despite public opposition.

Many Americans are concerned about the effects Adams' visit will have on United States-Britain relations. That is a valid concern, but it is time for Britain to accept the fact that the violence has stopped and the United States cannot continue to favor Britain while ignoring Irish concerns.

The British government has no right to criticize the U.S. decision to allow Adams into the country to raise funds. The problems that exist in Northern Ireland have not solely been caused by actions of the IRA. Protestants have been as responsible as Catholics for the amount of bloodshed in this senseless war.

The United States has been refusing to listen to the Irish side of this conflict for too long. The British have been in Northern Ireland for a long time, and now it is time they gave this piece of land back to the Irish.

Although the United States does not need to take sides in the actual conflict, it should try to further any attempt to end this situation without further violence.

But the United States can only do so much. The IRA must remember that although Clinton will allow its presence in the United States, it is on the condition that the violence does not erupt again.