Criminal activities by paramilitaries 'disturbing', says Govt
The latest report from the Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) paints a disturbing picture of continuing criminal activity by republican and loyalist groups, the Government said today.
The report, which was completed in April but held until after the British election, is the first since Sinn Féin’s April 6 call on the IRA to abandon its armed struggle and to pursue its goals exclusively through democracy.
A Government statement said today: “The latest IMC Report presents a disturbing picture in relation to the ongoing criminal activity of paramilitary groups, both loyalist and republican.”
However the Government said it stood firmly behind the Good Friday Agreement as the only means to restore devolution and end all forms of criminality for good.
“The Government remains committed to the goal of achieving an inclusive settlement to the outstanding problems in Northern Ireland as the only viable option for all sides.
“The Government continues to be satisfied that the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement is the best way of ensuring a peaceful society and a stable political situation in Northern Ireland.
“Following the outcome of the recent elections, the Government will continue to work with all of the parties to achieve that aim.
“However, once again, the findings of the Report underline the clear need for the issue of paramilitarism, including all forms of criminal activity, to be resolved satisfactorily for once and for all.”
The statement added that the Irish Government appreciated the diligence and hard work of the IMC in carrying out its work.
