THE Fianna Fail leader, Mr Ahern, has accused the British government of what he calls "brazen neglect" of the peace process.
Mr Ahern said in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, last night that from both governments we have had a sad and sorry catalogue of missed opportunities" as well as a lack of commitment.
"We must return to first principles and the practices that should have ensued alter the declaration of the ceasefires. There is still room, even at this minute to midnight scenario, for the two governments to bring forward definite confidence building measures, key initiatives and new proposals which would promote such talks and encourage the paramilitaries to lay down the weapons of war and their plans for war," he added.
Even at this late stage, the British government could publicly restate its commitment to such measures and its unequivocal support for meaningful talks without obstructions or barriers.
Mr Ahern urged politicians on all sides to "look up from the present impasse to future possibilities. We can agree to differ on central core values while expressing firmly the right of our neighbour to adhere to different traditions and inspirations".
