IRA bank raid claims a 'setback' for peace process: Ahern
Northern Ireland Chief Constable Hugh Orde’s assertion that the IRA was involved in the Northern Bank robbery in Belfast is a “serious set-back” to the peace process, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said today.
Mr Ahern described the allegations as a “matter of deep concern” and said it corroded the public confidence the Government had to foster to obtain a comprehensive settlement in Northern Ireland.
“It underscores the need for compelling commitments both in word and deed that the full spectrum of IRA paramilitary activities and capability has been brought to a definitive closure,” he said.
He added that this must include the necessary assurance regarding all forms of criminal activity which, following the Northern Bank robbery, clearly remains a major concern.
“Recent developments have validated the need for such demonstrable commitments if the public confidence necessary to sustain inclusive government is to be achieved.”
The Gardaí are co-operating fully with the Police Service of Northern Ireland in an effort to apprehend culprits of the crime, he said.
He added that the Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) will offer a considered assessment of the matter in its next report.
Mr Ahern said the robbery will convince both governments that they must “complete the unfinished business arising from the comprehensive agreement”.
He added: “If stable politics in Northern Ireland is to be secured, there can be no doubt or ambiguity about the total commitment of all concerned to exclusively peaceful and democratic engagement, including desisting from involvement in criminality in all its forms.
When he returns from his trip to the Asian tsunami zone, foreign affairs minister Dermot Ahern will meet Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy to review matters.
The Taoiseach is due to meet Tony Blair in coming weeks for a “full and comprehensive discussion on how both Governments now take forward the process”.
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