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23/04/2003
Agreement 'frustratingly close' in NI peace deal
The Prime Minister has said that agreement is "frustratingly close" over the IRA's position on acts of completion.
Tony Blair was speaking at a press conference at Downing Street today in a move designed to seek further clarification on the IRA's intentions.
Mr Blair said there was an impasse because there was "uncertainty over the commitments given". He said that the British, Irish and US governments were concerned that recent statements emanating from the Sinn Fein leadership and the IRA were "ambiguous".
The Prime Minister went on to outline three key areas for definition; he asked:
Two weeks ago, the Irish and British governments were due to publish a way forward document in an attempt to overcome present difficulties and ensure the main players engaged in "acts of completion".
However, the publication was shelved as commitments given by the IRA were not thought to be strong enough to restore unionist confidence in the power-sharing executive. Today, Mr Blair said that the Stormont elections remain on course for a May 29 polling day.
The Prime Minister concluded by saying that it would be "a genuine failure of leadership" if no resolution was to be found. However, he remained convinced that all parties genuinely wanted to see the peace process work.
(GMcG)
Tony Blair was speaking at a press conference at Downing Street today in a move designed to seek further clarification on the IRA's intentions.
Mr Blair said there was an impasse because there was "uncertainty over the commitments given". He said that the British, Irish and US governments were concerned that recent statements emanating from the Sinn Fein leadership and the IRA were "ambiguous".
The Prime Minister went on to outline three key areas for definition; he asked:
- When the IRA say that their strategies and disciplines will not be inconsistent with the Good Friday Agreement, does that mean an end to all activities inconsistent with the Good Friday Agreement, including targeting, procurement of weapons, so-called punishment beatings, and so forth?
- Secondly, when they say that they are committed to putting arms beyond use through the Decommissioning Commission, does that mean all arms so that the process is complete?
- And thirdly, when they say that they support the Good Friday Agreement and want it to work, does that mean that if the two Governments and the other parties fulfil their obligations under the Good Friday Agreement and the Joint Declaration, that that means the complete and final closure of the conflict?
Two weeks ago, the Irish and British governments were due to publish a way forward document in an attempt to overcome present difficulties and ensure the main players engaged in "acts of completion".
However, the publication was shelved as commitments given by the IRA were not thought to be strong enough to restore unionist confidence in the power-sharing executive. Today, Mr Blair said that the Stormont elections remain on course for a May 29 polling day.
The Prime Minister concluded by saying that it would be "a genuine failure of leadership" if no resolution was to be found. However, he remained convinced that all parties genuinely wanted to see the peace process work.
(GMcG)
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04 March 2004
IRA activities hold up political progress, says Ahern
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said that time is running out for the Northern Ireland peace process and that republicans must commit to peace.
IRA activities hold up political progress, says Ahern
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said that time is running out for the Northern Ireland peace process and that republicans must commit to peace.
14 April 2003
Governments await clarification from IRA
The British and Irish governments are awaiting a third statement from the IRA to clarify its position on giving up arms and declaring its war over.
Governments await clarification from IRA
The British and Irish governments are awaiting a third statement from the IRA to clarify its position on giving up arms and declaring its war over.
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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.
