The Good Friday Agreement was an incredible breakthrough. But it's my view that the Hillsborough Agreement could see politics in the north come of age, and see us all move forwards on the basis of equality and partnership.

Martin McGuinness’s quote highlights the significance of both the Good Friday Agreement and the Hillsborough Agreement in shaping the political landscape of Northern Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 was a pivotal moment in Northern Ireland's history, helping to end decades of conflict known as The Troubles. However, McGuinness believes that the Hillsborough Agreement, which was signed in 2010, has the potential to take Northern Ireland’s political development to the next level. He suggests that it could foster a future based on equality and partnership, moving beyond the historic divisions that have long shaped the region's politics.

The origin of this quote can be traced to McGuinness's role as a key figure in the Irish republican movement and his involvement in the peace process. As a former leader of the Sinn Féin party and later Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, McGuinness was a central architect of the Good Friday Agreement and a strong advocate for peace and political stability in the region. His mention of the Hillsborough Agreement reflects his ongoing commitment to peace and reconciliation, highlighting the continued efforts needed to build a future based on mutual respect and cooperation.

McGuinness’s emphasis on equality and partnership underscores his belief that lasting peace in Northern Ireland cannot be achieved solely through political agreements, but through creating a society where all communities are treated with fairness and where cooperation is prioritized. He sees the Hillsborough Agreement as a key step in this direction, offering a framework for overcoming divisions and advancing a shared future, where political progress is marked by inclusive governance rather than sectarian interests.

Ultimately, McGuinness’s quote calls for continued political maturity in Northern Ireland, one that builds on past achievements but also looks ahead to a future of equality and partnership. By acknowledging the potential of the Hillsborough Agreement to advance these goals, he emphasizes the importance of moving forward together, fostering unity and cooperation between all communities in the region.