IRA Decommissioning

IRELAND -- "Any destruction of terrorist weapons must be warmly welcomed. For Irish Republicanism today's (26 Sept) announcement represents a massive step. For all of us it can become a major step towards a peaceful and just society if it heralds the end of all criminality and violence in future. Ultimately, all paramilitary weapons must be placed beyond use.

So many people who have been disappointed in the past will take a great deal of convincing and we must understand their thinking. However, I urge that all politicians reflect carefully on what has been stated today and measure their response most carefully.

I fully respect and accept the integrity and judgement of Fr Alex Reid and the Revd Harold Good, who have offered such a clear picture of their experiences.

Today, I urge everyone to remember in their prayers the families of all who lost loved-ones as a result of IRA terrorism. For them, today must be a time of deep emotion and memories."