The Daily News. TUESDAY, JULY 12, 1921. THE IRISH TRUCE.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 July 1921, Page 4

The Daily News. TUESDAY, JULY 12, 1921. THE IRISH TRUCE.

Every step taken towards a settlement of the Irish question is eagerly watched, always with the hope that it may lead to the desired end. Apparently a more favorable atmosphere exists at the present time for an adjustment, of differences than heretofore, particularly by reason of the assistance that is being rendered by the South African Premier (General Smuts), who represents a nation that in some important points resembles Ireland in its relation to the Empire and Britain. Both have a section of uncompromising nationalists, who favor an independent republic, though South Africa’s inclusion in the Empire is of much later date than that of Ireland. If there is one statesman in a better position to give good, sound counsel to the Irish leaders of both sides it is General .Smuts. The first step, however, is to arrive at a point when ail the cards can be laid on the table, so that it may be seen more exactly how matters stand with reference' to the existence of a real desire to give and take in order to formulate preliminaries, and it is at this stage that General Smuts may be of the greatest use, though the outcome entirely depends on whether wise counsel will secure a hearing or not. If the Sinn Fein leaders will concede the dominant principle that Ireland must be included in the Empire, the way will be open to arrange the terms. There should be no insuperable difficulty over this crucial test, but it would certainly be prudent when considering the possible outcome of the conference that is to take place to bear in mind the proclamation issued by De Valera, wherein he said: “In the negotiations now initiated your representatives will do their utmost to secure a just, peaceful termination of the struggle, but the history and character of the issue to be decided are a warning against undue confidence.” It is decidedly disappointing that De Valera should have thought it necessary to introduce this pessimistic note, and to refer to the resumption of force. However, he may have merely adopted that attitude as a camouflage, or as a means of inspiring the confidence of his followers. The cessation of hostilities for the time being is something to be thankful for, and it is sincerely to be hoped that no resumption will take place. So far, De Valera has only consented to a conference with Mr. Lloyd George to discuss on what basis a round table confei’ence “can reasonably hope to achieve the object desired.” The British Premier should have no difficulty in outlining such a reasonable basis as will open the door to the main conference, and then if a conciliatory spirit is exhibited on both sides there should be a reasonable chance of arriving at a settlement, which would be hailed with the greatest satisfaction throughout the Empire. Meanwhile we can only hope for the best, and that the truce will eventually be followed by a. lasting peace and harmony between the peoples of the two islands. De Valera has stated this is “the genuine desire of the people of Ireland.” It is, therefore, for him to give practical proof thereof and open up a way whereby the wounds of the past may be healed, and the future be bright with promise. On Ulster, also, rests a grave responsibility, and the spirit of conciliation should be equally in evidence in that quarter, for only by united effort can satisfactory results be achieved.