There is a great deal of work that can be done between the SDLP representing the Nationalist population and the Unionist Parties, and I believe we should set down to do that.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
If I felt we had alienated the Unionists, it would worry me because we've spent a great deal of time trying to open up discussion and dialogue with the Unionist Parties.
I've had very good meetings with Unionist leaders, Democratic Unionist Party, Ian Paisley and his team.
When you're brought up in a Unionist culture, you can't help but feel Unionist.
I think that before you take on nation building in your mind's eye as to how it should be, you'd better have a clear understanding if this is doable and will work.
The Scottish Labour Party, while I have breath in my body, will listen to the views of trade unionists.
I think that we must come together progressively, with the British, the Germans, the Spanish, the Italians and with the new members of the European Union, we must make an effort to forge closer links.
It... is the best opportunity we've had in the last 25 years to bring about a settlement in Northern Ireland, and I think we should leave no stone unturned to achieve that.
If the British government is prepared to say that the Unionists will not have a veto over British government policy and that guns, vetoes and injustices will all be left outside the door, then there is no good reason why talks cannot take place in an appropriate atmosphere.
The U.K. needs a strong opposition, and Labour shows no signs of being capable of being that. The SNP is filling that void and will go on seeking to do that.
What I've said in the past is that I want the Labour Party to approach this matter on the basis of unity.