The first IRA statement

Belfast blogger Ma Bear has the statement announcing the current proposed version of the IRA statement:

Following approaches from others, the leadership of the IRA undertook to draw up a statement setting out our views on recent developments in the peace process. We did so because of our commitment to this process and our desire to see it succeed.

In this context we decided to give our attitude on:

:: The current disposition of Oglaigh na hEireann (the Irish Republican Army) and the status of our cessation.

:: Our future intentions.

:: Our attitude to a re-engagement with the IICD (the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning) and engagement in a process of putting arms beyond use.

:: A third act of putting arms beyond use to be verified under the agreed scheme.

We shared concepts and draft elements on these matters with others and now, following an internal consultation, we have closed on a statement which will be passed onto the two Governments.

We stand ready to issue it in due course.

Signed � P O�Neill.

A new, and apparently more specific statement is being considered by the British and Irish governments.

Mick Fealty

Mick is founding editor of Slugger. He has written papers on the impacts of the Internet on politics and the wider media and is a regular guest and speaking events across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Twitter: @MickFealty