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Positive verdict on IRA activity | |
(about 9 hours later) | |
The IRA is firmly committed to following a political path and is not engaged in terrorist activity, Northern Ireland's ceasefire watchdog has said. | |
The Independent Monitoring Commission reported the IRA still had a command and control structure but said this was vital for keeping on its peaceful path. | |
It said dissident republicans posed the most significant threat while loyalists remained involved in violence. | |
Meanwhile, it said troop levels have dropped to 8,300, ahead of schedule. | |
The IMC's 11th report focused mostly on security matters. | |
Its next one, due next month, will focus more on paramilitary activity, although Tuesday's report provided a brief assessment of the level of danger. | |
It said dissident republicans were seen as the main threat, although their operations have been hampered by their limited expertise. | |
There was acknowledgement that loyalist paramilitary leaders had contributed to the quiet marching season, but the IMC said loyalists remain engaged in violence. | |
It expressed concern about the UVF's refusal to clarify its position ahead of the November devolution deadline. | |
Stance against criminality | |
The IMC gave a positive verdict on the IRA: it said the organisation was not engaged in any terrorist activity, including procuring weapons or training members. | |
The four-man body believes the IRA leadership is opposed to the use of violence in community control and has taken a stance against criminality. | |
It said the IRA still had a command and control structure but argued this was an important element in maintaining the IRA on its chosen path. | |
The Irish justice minister, Michael McDowell, welcomed the report but said that the threat from dissident groups still caused concern. | |
"The report reflects the changed security environment in Northern Ireland that, consistent with protecting public safety, will advance the cause of peace and create the conditions for a full return to government by the elected representatives in Northern Ireland," he said. | |
The Independent Monitoring Commission was set up by the British and Irish governments in January 2004. | The Independent Monitoring Commission was set up by the British and Irish governments in January 2004. |
Most of its reports have concentrated on activity by paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland. | Most of its reports have concentrated on activity by paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland. |
However, it also monitors the "normalisation" of security measures in the province. | However, it also monitors the "normalisation" of security measures in the province. |
Its four commissioners come from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Britain and the US. | Its four commissioners come from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Britain and the US. |