19/09/2002
Reid announces independent violence monitor
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland John Reid has set in train arrangements for what the NIO describes as an "independent monitoring of the level of violence in Northern Ireland and the nature of paramilitary involvement in it".
The terms of reference for the body appear to be less focused on actual 'ceasefire monitoring', but encompassing a wider remit of 'violence monitor'.
The careful wording of the proposal means that a direct conflict with Sinn Fein may be avoided, as the party had voiced its opposition to the setting up of a ceasefire monitor – they, however, have advocated an independent body to monitor violence at interface violence. On the other hand, unionist representatives have been broadly supportive of the move.
Announcing the move, Dr Reid said that the level of violence in the province "remains a matter of serious concern".
He said: "I am clear that periodic reports setting out from an independent perspective just what is happening can only assist in bringing further pressure to bear on those responsible."
He added: "This task won't be easy. But I am clear that we need someone who will be focused on the very practical task of bringing greater transparency to the pattern of violence and the involvement of both loyalist and republican paramilitary organisations in it. Much information is already in the public domain, but the monitor will be able to bring it together in an accessible form, consulting the police and others as he judges fit."
Dr Reid stressed the power to rule on the validity of paramilitary ceasefires will remain within the realm of the Secretary of State.
The government will be drawing up a list of possible candidates in the near future.
(GMcG)
The terms of reference for the body appear to be less focused on actual 'ceasefire monitoring', but encompassing a wider remit of 'violence monitor'.
The careful wording of the proposal means that a direct conflict with Sinn Fein may be avoided, as the party had voiced its opposition to the setting up of a ceasefire monitor – they, however, have advocated an independent body to monitor violence at interface violence. On the other hand, unionist representatives have been broadly supportive of the move.
Announcing the move, Dr Reid said that the level of violence in the province "remains a matter of serious concern".
He said: "I am clear that periodic reports setting out from an independent perspective just what is happening can only assist in bringing further pressure to bear on those responsible."
He added: "This task won't be easy. But I am clear that we need someone who will be focused on the very practical task of bringing greater transparency to the pattern of violence and the involvement of both loyalist and republican paramilitary organisations in it. Much information is already in the public domain, but the monitor will be able to bring it together in an accessible form, consulting the police and others as he judges fit."
Dr Reid stressed the power to rule on the validity of paramilitary ceasefires will remain within the realm of the Secretary of State.
The government will be drawing up a list of possible candidates in the near future.
(GMcG)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
16 September 2002
Reid denies ceasefire monitor is Trimble tactic
Secretary of State, Dr John Reid has denied that the planned appointment of an independent monitor of paramilitary violence is in any way to do with the forthcoming Ulster Unionist party ruling council meeting.
Reid denies ceasefire monitor is Trimble tactic
Secretary of State, Dr John Reid has denied that the planned appointment of an independent monitor of paramilitary violence is in any way to do with the forthcoming Ulster Unionist party ruling council meeting.
13 September 2002
Independent ceasefire monitor speculation grows
Speculation is mounting that the government is to set up an independent monitor on paramilitary violence in Northern Ireland. The move was further strengthened after Ulster Unionist leader's meeting with the Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday, in which Mr Trimble confirmed that a proposal for the monitor was brought up with the PM.
Independent ceasefire monitor speculation grows
Speculation is mounting that the government is to set up an independent monitor on paramilitary violence in Northern Ireland. The move was further strengthened after Ulster Unionist leader's meeting with the Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday, in which Mr Trimble confirmed that a proposal for the monitor was brought up with the PM.
28 July 2023
One In Five Have Experienced Gender-Based Violence
One in five people have experienced at least one type of gender-based violence, whether physical, sexual, psychological, economic or online, in the last five years. The figure was revealed in a report – the 'Ending Violence Against Women and Girls: Experiences and attitudes of adults in Northern Ireland in 2022' – published by The Executive Office.
One In Five Have Experienced Gender-Based Violence
One in five people have experienced at least one type of gender-based violence, whether physical, sexual, psychological, economic or online, in the last five years. The figure was revealed in a report – the 'Ending Violence Against Women and Girls: Experiences and attitudes of adults in Northern Ireland in 2022' – published by The Executive Office.
24 July 2002
Government responds to rise in violence
In the Commons today the government outlined a series of measures designed to reduce the rise in paramilitary violence which had culminated in the murder of Catholic father-of-one Gerard Lawlor on Sunday.
Government responds to rise in violence
In the Commons today the government outlined a series of measures designed to reduce the rise in paramilitary violence which had culminated in the murder of Catholic father-of-one Gerard Lawlor on Sunday.
12 January 2007
NI Road Safety Monitor 2006 published
The Northern Ireland Road Safety Monitor 2006 has been published. The results outline the behaviour, attitudes and awareness of the general public to road safety issues throughout the province.
NI Road Safety Monitor 2006 published
The Northern Ireland Road Safety Monitor 2006 has been published. The results outline the behaviour, attitudes and awareness of the general public to road safety issues throughout the province.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.