After a particularly depressing period for the political process, yesterday's message from Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams to the unionist community offered at least some hope of movement.
Mr Adams acknowledged that republicans at all levels have a responsibility to bridge the gap separating them from unionists, and said that the latter have real concerns which needed to be addressed.
This was a more thoughtful approach than some republicans have taken in recent times, and it was striking to hear the stress Mr Adams placed on what he referred to as national reconciliation.
The Sinn Féin president spoke of five decades of institutionalised sectarianism by unionist administrations, but recognised that ordinary unionists, like nationalists, had suffered from social disadvantage and deprivation.
He revealed that republicans had specific proposals to reduce tension in interface zones, and said it was essential that this year's marching season should pass off peacefully.
Belfast's main flashpoint areas have been relatively quiet, by previous standards, so far this year; but there is always the danger that circumstances can take a sudden and alarming turn for the worse
Particular dangers are associated with parades which in the past have led to serious and prolonged disturbances.
If the kind of accommodation which has been so successfully reached in Derry can be extended to Belfast and elsewhere, it would be a development of huge significance.
Loyalist organisations in some – but not all – districts have previously been reluctant to enter full negotiations on marching issues.
Should talks get under way this summer, a generous and imaginative response from everyone on the nationalist side is vital.
Alban Maginness of the SDLP was entitled to make the point last night that, by this stage, republican actions would speak louder than words.
If Mr Adams can follow his statement yesterday with an initiative which helps to further reduce street violence, and facilitates progress in the marching debate, he would deserve considerable credit.
The prospect of wider political advances would also be clearly facilitated.
