Republican News · Thursday 11 April 2002

IRA leads the way

This week, the IRA made another momentous gesture to demonstrate its commitment to the peace process. The difficulties involved for republicans of this second arms initiative should not be underestimated. But what should also not be underestimated is the republican determination to achieve a united Ireland based on the principles of peace, justice and equality.

The IRA's move must be viewed against a backdrop of failure on the part of others to meet their obligations under the Good Friday Agreement. On policing, demilitarisation, human rights, equality and justice, there remain significant gaps between what was agreed over four years ago and what has been delivered so far.

For example, the ongoing attempts to implicate the IRA in the Castlereagh raid is evidence of the continuing malign influence of the securocrats, those within the British establishment who, even at this late stage, want to turn the clock back.

For the political process to succeed, there needs to be good faith on all sides.

Tírghrá

This weekend in Dublin, the families of republicans who have made the ultimate sacrifice over the years of conflict will be honoured at a very special event. The Tírghrá function, 18 months in the organising, will show solidarity with the relatives and demonstrate that republicans are proud of those who risked and lost their lives for Irish freedom.

The resolve and commitment of those who died continues to inspire us. The debt we owe them is to continue to struggle until that certain day. We owe them no less. We will accept no less.