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)