McGimpsey: Some promising phrases in Adams statement
Michael McGimpsey, one of the Ulster Unionist ministers who resigned office at Stormont last week, said there were some promising phrases in the Adams statement.
‘‘But so far these are words and we have been at pains to state that words are not enough we want to see action,’’ he said.
He added: ‘‘However it would be begrudging of me not to state that there are promising parts in this statement that may be heralding further steps.
‘‘At this point in time nothing has actually happened in terms of actions - what we have here is the appearance of a promise we must wait to see further developments.’’
ohn Hume, the leader of the SDLP’s whose discussions years ago with Gerry Adams were largely responsible for drawing Sinn Fein into the political process and the IRA calling its ceasefire, expressed the hope the IRA would respond positively to Mr Adams.
Mr Hume, who hands over the mantle of party leader to Mark Durkan at the SDLP annual conference next month, said: ‘‘I welcome Gerry Adams’ request to the IRA to resolve the arms issue and hope they respond positively.
‘‘I hope David Trimble will also respond positively by ensuring that all the institutions remain in place and by ensuring that they work together to build a new society.’’
Mark Durkan welcomed Mr Adams’ speech as positive and said he hoped there would be an immediate move on IRA disarmament.
’’We hope, like other parties, to be in a position to receive a positive and authoritative report from General de Chastelain on this whole issue.
’’The sooner it comes the better. I would hope now that Sinn Fein have put on record that they have counselled the IRA, the IRA will be able to demonstrate what conclusions it has come to.’’
