Taoiseach: Time has come for IRA to disband
The Taoiseach has told the forum for peace and reconciliation that he and the British Prime Minister are dedicating their efforts over the coming months to break the "logjam" in the peace process.
Mr Ahern told the reconvened meeting that as he, Tony Blair and the parties in Northern Ireland pursue acts of completion that are necessary to break the deadlock, no one should expect surprises.
He said the time has come for the IRA to disband and the republican movement should convert to democratic means. He told the forum that a fully inclusive policing board, including Sinn Fein, is achievable.
He said a structured co-operation on policing and justice will facilitate a new era in tackling cross border and all Ireland crime.
Mr Ahern praised the work of the forum and said it could still focus on a number of issues, such as parity of esteem.
On his way into meeting Sinn Fein president, Gerry Adams said his party is fully committed to peace and justice for all.
"Let's not presuppose that other parties are going to come with that sort of agenda and we are certainly here because we are committed to the ideal and the objective of peace and reconciliation. That requires justice and it requires the people of this island to be able to shape out our own future."
