The North's First Minister, Mr David Trimble, has been accused by Sinn Féin of blaming republicans for sectarian violence that was fomented by loyalist paramilitaries.
Speaking at Sinn Féin's annual Wolfe Tone commemoration in Bodenstown, Mr Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD said Mr Trimble's behaviour was highly irresponsible and did nothing to dampen the flames of hatred and sectarianism.
The leader of Sinn Féin in the Dáil urged Mr Trimble to confront the forces of reactionary loyalism and said political leadership was needed to prevent an escalation of violence. The Belfast Agreement provided the way out of the cul de sac of sectarianism, he said, and political leaders should promote the principles of equality on which it was based.
Sinn Féin recognised that many in the unionist community had deep fears and suspicions of republicans, Mr Ó Caoláin said. He continued: "We acknowledge that great hurt has been inflicted on them during the conflict, just as great hurt has been inflicted on the nationalist community. But it is in our mutual interest to build on the achievements of the peace process, achievements which we share and in which we can take pride, and to work together for reconciliation and progress on this island."
Sinn Féin would oppose the Nice Treaty in a new referendum, he said. Next year it had a chance to become the largest party in the North in the Assembly elections.