"No surrender to al Qaeda!" (in bad Belfast accent)

Can Northern Ireland politicians succeed where Captain Codpiece has created a disaster? Secret meetings in Finland between Iraqi Sunnis, Iraqi Shi'as and representatives of unionist and nationalist Northern Irish parties have been taking place in the hopes of coming up with a "road map" to bring, if not peace, then at least calm to the torn country. There are real questions as to whether the Iraqis involved have either the will or the means to bring their countrymen on board but I think we should grasp at any hope that comes floating by. They have apparently agreed on the following twelve point plan:

1 Resolve political issues through non-violence and democracy.

2 Prohibit use of arms while in talks.

3 Form independent commission to disarm groups in verifiable manner.

4 Accept results of negotiations.

5 End international interference.

6 Commit to protect human rights.

7 Assure independence and effectiveness of the law and courts, especially constitutional court.

8 Full participation of all parties in political process and governance.

9 Take all steps to end violence, killings, forced displacement and damage to infrastructure.

10 Establish independent body to explore how to deal with the past in way which will unite nation.

11 Support efforts to make political process successful and to protect Iraq's unity and sovereignty.

12 Participating groups commit to principles as complete set of rules.

Northern Ireland's First Minister the (mail order) Dr. Ian Paisley did not participate in the talks.

No members of the 101st Keyboarders were harmed in the development of this plan.