Trimble Stakes Credibility on Sinn Fein Decommissioning

Strategic Insights -

Northern Ireland's First Minister David Trimble has staked his credibility on the good faith of Sinn Fein, stating that decommissioning of IRA weapons is now inevitable. In return, he has promised seats for Sinn Fein on the new executive. Trimble's optimism comes as British Government sources express private confidence that the IRA has decided to decommission. The move is expected to lead to the early release of 16 terrorist prisoners and the use of new powers by Irish security forces to round up Real IRA suspects.

Key Takeaways:

  • Trimble has staked his credibility on the good faith of Sinn Fein, stating that decommissioning of IRA weapons is now inevitable.
  • In return for Sinn Fein's cooperation, Trimble has promised seats for the party on the new executive.
  • British Government sources express private confidence that the IRA has decided to decommission.
  • The decommissioning process is expected to lead to the early release of 16 terrorist prisoners.
  • Irish security forces are expected to use their new powers to round up Real IRA suspects.
  • Home Secretary Jack Straw will consider legislation to admit police telephone intercepts as evidence in court.
  • Trimble will meet with Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams on Tuesday, but will not shake his hand, citing the need to be careful about the signals sent to people.
  • Trimble has revealed that he will tell Adams that he cannot govern with Sinn Fein unless decommissioning starts.

Statistics:

  • 16 terrorist prisoners are expected to be released early as part of the decommissioning process.
  • The Real IRA is responsible for the Omagh bombing, which claimed its 29th victim on Tuesday with the death of Sean McGrath, 61.
  • British Ministers expect the Irish security forces to round up Real IRA suspects using their new powers.
  • Home Secretary Jack Straw will consider legislation to admit police telephone intercepts as evidence in court.
  • In 1998, the Good Friday agreement was signed, paving the way for the decommissioning of IRA weapons.

Sources:

  • "The Observer", Focus, interview, pages 16-17