Manning blamed the British government for missing opportunities early on in the conflict to resolve the situation peacefully.
"Neither the House of Commons nor the British government took any interest," he said. That missed opportunity, Manning asserted, caused the years of bloodshed in Northern Ireland.
Manning focused mostly on the sea change that has occurred in Ireland in the last few years.
"For the first time ever, both sides have voted for the same solution," he said.
Manning is optimistic about the future, saying leaders are confident that peace can be attained.
He sees the key to future progress as the two sides discussing small issues at first. If the Catholics and Protestants can begin to agree on issues like housing and education, he said, then real progress towards peace can be made--progress which might eventually lead to a reunited Ireland.
The 40 study group attendees hailed from a variety of backgrounds: undergraduates, teachers, alumni, military personnel--even a visiting Canadian couple who grew up in Ireland.
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