"They want to derail peace because they want to plunge Northern Ireland back into armed conflict"

This quote by Peter Mandelson is referring to those who oppose the peace procedure in Northern Ireland. He is suggesting that these people are actively attempting to interfere with the peace and return the region to a state of armed dispute. This could be motivated by a desire to maintain the status quo, or to acquire power and control through violence. It could likewise be a result of a lack of understanding of the peace process and the possible benefits it might give the region. Whatever the motivation, it is clear that those who oppose the peace process are actively attempting to undermine it and return Northern Ireland to a state of armed dispute. This is a hazardous and careless strategy that might have devastating effects for the area.