I do not believe that there is a sufficient basis to conclude that the IRA ceasefire has broken down . . . The peace we have now is imperfect, but better than none.
- Mo Mowlam on why she would not stop prisoner releases despite recent IRA gun-running and murder
I don't believe the decision is right . . . A ceasefire is a ceasefire, is a ceasefire. You are not on ceasefire when you are shooting people . . . The challenge here for the republican movement is for them to demonstrate clearly to the people of Northern Ireland and elsewhere that they have left violence behind. I see that as a difficult challenge in the present circumstances.
- David Trimble reacts
It continues to be our belief that the most effective means of ensuring that all acts of violence are put behind us for good is through the consolidation of the political process and, in particular, through the implementation of the Good Friday agreement.
- Liz O'Donnell gives the Government's view
The Patten proposals, hard as many are to swallow, may point the way to a more equitable future, provided all parties dedicate themselves to `exclusively peaceful methods'.
- Belfast Telegraph editorial
All office-holders are expected to adhere to the fundamental principle that an offer of gifts, hospitality or services should not be accepted where it would or might appear to place him or her under an obligation.
- Guidelines to ministers, issued on foot of the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995.
It is ridiculous to suggest that either minister could be bought for the price of bed and breakfast in the south of France.
- spokesman for Bertie Ahern
Given Mr Ahern's refusal to deal properly with issues of accountability relating to himself, his response to this issue is hardly surprising.
- Labour Party leader Ruairi Quinn has none of it
It would be a sad day for Ireland if people were afraid to go on holidays with their friends and family. We live in a small country and I believe that politicians who have friends in different areas like law, the media and business are better off for it.
- Mary Harney defends herself
Motorists sat in tailbacks for over 40 minutes on journeys that should have lasted 15 minutes.
- Conor Faughnan, of the AA, passing judgment on the new Dublin Quality Bus Corridor
They can't be talking about gridlock on the city's streets and then resist all attempts for traffic management.
- Environment Minister Noel Dempsey fumes back