The time for government engagement with paramilitaries has passed, SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has said after Secretary of State Hilary Benn confirmed the UK and Irish governments would engage with groups in an attempt to get them to disband.

The initial proposal came from the Independent Reporting Commission (IRC). South Belfast and Mid Down MP Ms Hanna said: "When these proposals were first brought forward by the IRC the SDLP expressed clear opposition. The time for soft transitioning has long since passed, these groups have had multiple opportunities and encouragement to disband over the past 30 years. These are criminal gangs that continue to exert a toxic control over communities across Northern Ireland, and who exploit and perpetuate sectarian division and legacy, and who have continued to recruit members.

"The way to get rid of paramilitary groups once and for all is not through further platforming, but by delegitimising them, investing in our police service, particularly neighbourhood policing, and supporting alternative forms of community leadership to break the hold these groups have.

"Both governments must learn from the mistakes made in dealing with paramilitary and organised crime groups in the past. Offering further incentives or status to these groups encourages continuing on in the hope of future rewards."