Vol. 557 No. 2
118 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government has discussed the proposal for the appointment of an independent paramilitary ceasefire monitor with the British Government and the political parties in Northern Ireland; the Government's views on this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16372/02]
133 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has discussed the proposal for the appointment of an independent paramilitary ceasefire monitor with the British Government and the political parties in Northern Ireland; the Government's views on this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18936/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 118 and 133 together.
The British proposal to establish an independent mechanism to monitor paramilitary ceasefires has been discussed with the British Government through the framework of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. The British side have advised that no decisions have been reached on this matter, including in regard to a nominee to carry out the role of independent monitor.
During early deliberations on this question, the Government raised a number of questions about the nature of the proposed operation of the audit mechanism, its remit, resources to be made available to it, and potential candidates. Since then the context has changed considerably with the suspension of the institutions on 14 October and shortly thereafter the appointment of a new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
What has not changed is the position regarding any assessment of the ceasefires: it remains the duty of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. We are confident that the new Secretary of State, Paul Murphy, will perform this task as his predecessors did, making a sound judgment in the round based on all the relevant facts and factors in accordance with the statutory requirements.
The Irish Governments position is clear: all traces of paramilitarism must be removed from society in Northern Ireland. The continuation of ceasefires declared by paramilitary organisations has made, and continues to make, a major contribution to the progress of recent years. The two acts of decommissioning by the IRA were very significant and welcome developments.
We share the view of the British Government that the Sinn Féin leadership is totally committed to the peace process. However, the necessary transition from paramilitarism to peace and democracy must proceed apace. How this transition can be completed will be a key issue – and a major challenge – in the forthcoming talks aimed at surmounting the current impasse in the peace process.
Question No. 119 answered with Question No. 95.
