Talks continue over IRA statement

Talks are continuing today over whether further clarification can be added to the IRA's third "acts of completion" statement, and so allow the Northern Ireland peace process to move forward.

The IRA's previous statements, released last Wednesday and Saturday, have been described as "progress" – but clearly not progressive enough to see the release of the 26-page blueprint on the way forward.

Downing Street have indicated that the IRA's latest document is not the final package and would need further definition to make it presentable. The Prime Minister's Official Spokesman (PMOS) said yesterday that "it would take a bit more time" before agreement could be reached, but both governments remain in contact with "all the key players".

Asked about what Mr Blair's view of the IRA response was, the spokesman said yesterday: "In our view, it is better to make judgements at the end, rather than mid-way through [the process]."

Elsewhere, Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern took time out from meetings at the EU summit in Athens today for further discussions on the Northern Ireland issue.

Both leaders have remained upbeat that the deadlock can be broken – and that paramilitary groups will commit to disbandment.

As Bertie Ahern told the Dail yesterday: "I have made clear 'acts of completion' must see an end to all paramilitarism and activity and the putting beyond use, finally, of all paramilitary weapons. This is basic and it is essential."

However, the unionist community remain sceptical, and earlier today the UUP leader and former first minister David Trimble said that the IRA's approach "falls short" of what is required.

Sinn Fein have rejected this view as the "politics of veto", saying that progress is achievable.

(GMcG)