The IRA's response
Exclusive
Document a ``significant development'' but progress depends on
British
The IRA has given its response to the Good Friday document. In a
statement they have reasserted that a durable peace demands an
end to British rule in Ireland and they say that the document
``clearly falls short of presenting a solid basis for a lasting
settlement''.
But they say that it ``does mark a significant development''.
Whether this ``heralds a transformation of the situation is
dependent totally on the will of the British government''.
The statement also makes it clear that there will be no
decommissioning by the IRA.
The statement, in full, reads:
``The Leadership of Oglaigh na hEireann have considered carefully
the Good Friday document. It remains our position that a durable
peace settlement demands the end of British rule in Ireland and
the exercise of the right of the people of Ireland to national
self-determination.
Viewed against our Republican objectives or any democratic
analysis this document clearly falls short of presenting a solid
basis for a lasting settlement.
In our view the two imminent referenda do not constitute the
exercise of national self-determination and voters' attitudes to
the referenda should be guided by their own view and the advice
of their political leaders.
However, the Good Friday document does mark a significant
development. But whether or not this heralds a transformation of
the situation is dependent totally on the will of the British
government.
Accordingly, we will carefully monitor the situation.
There appears to be yet another attempt to resurrect the
decommissioning issue as an obstacle to progress.
The IRA commitment to assisting the search for justice and peace
is a matter of public record. This commitment remains. Let us
make it clear that there will be no decommissioning by the IRA.
This issue, as with any other matter affecting the IRA, its
functions and objectives, is a matter only for the IRA, to be
decided upon and pronounced upon by us.
We are mindful of our responsibilities and of the need for
continued vigilance during these challenging times.
We are aware also of those who will resist any dynamic for
change. They need to face up to the reality that peace demands
justice, equality and national rights for the people of Ireland.
We commend the efforts of Sinn Fein. They can be confident of our
desire to see all republicans engage in their decision-making
process at this time in a constructive and positive way.
We wish Sinn Fein further success in the development of their
peace strategy. It remains clear that movement towards a lasting
peace is a shared responsibility of all political leaders.
We face the future united, committed and dedicated to the
struggle for Irish Unity and Independence.
Beirigi Bua
P O'Neill
![[An Phoblacht]](http://republican-news.org/graphics/title_gifs/aprn.gif)