The dark shadow we seem to see in the distance is not really a mountain ahead, but the shadow of the mountain behind – a shadow from the past thrown forward into our future. It is a dark sludge of historical sectarianism. We can leave it behind us if we wish.

About David Trimble

William David Trimble, Baron Trimble, was a Northern Irish politician who was the inaugural First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002, and leader of the Ulster Unionist Partyfrom 1995 to 2005. He was also Member of Parliamentfor Upper Bann from 1990 to 2005 and Member of the Legislative Assemblyfor Upper Bann from 1998 to 2007.

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More quotes from David Trimble

Circumstances give in reality to every political principle, its distinguishing colour, and discriminating effect. The circumstances are what render every civil and political scheme beneficial or noxious to mankind.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

The one thing I can assure you is that I’m not going to do a Prescott.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

Politics can be likened to driving at night over unfamiliar hills and mountains. Close attention must be paid to what the beam can reach and the next bend.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

The Republican movement have not behaved properly over the years. They have not themselves implemented the Agreement. If they had implemented the Agreement then they would have disarmed completely in May 2000, that is what they undertook to do, that is what they failed to do.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

There are two traditions in Northern Ireland. There are two main religious denominations. But there is only one true moral denomination. And it wants peace.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

As we take stock of this century of achievement, Ulster Unionists have every reason to feel proud.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002

The dark shadow we seem to see in the distance is not really a mountain ahead, but the shadow of the mountain behind – a shadow from the past thrown forward into our future. It is a dark sludge of historical sectarianism. We can leave it behind us if we wish.

David Trimble

First Minister of Northern Ireland from 1998 to 2002