Ulster Unionist Leader Accuses Sinn Fein of Deceiving British and Irish Prime Ministers

Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble launched a scathing attack on the Northern Ireland peace process, claiming that Sinn Fein had deceived the British and Irish Prime Ministers over the IRA's intention to disarm. This criticism comes as the flashpoint Drumcree Orange Parade passed off peacefully, with Northern Ireland Secretary Mo Mowlam confirming discussions about her possible move away from Belfast to another government job. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Tony Blair expressed optimism about the plan, stating that he believed Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams was sincere about disarming the IRA. However, Trimble's comments sparked concerns that Blair had been deceived by Adams.

Key Takeaways:

• Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble accused Sinn Fein of deceiving the British and Irish Prime Ministers over the IRA's intention to disarm.
• Trimble claimed that Sinn Fein leaders had perpetrated a "con job" on Prime Minister Tony Blair, convincing him that the IRA was willing to disarm without providing guarantees.
• Despite concerns, Blair remained optimistic about the plan, stating that he believed Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams was sincere about disarming the IRA.
• Northern Ireland Secretary Mo Mowlam confirmed discussions about her possible move away from Belfast to another government job.
• The Drumcree Orange Parade passed off peacefully, with a hard core of Loyalist supporters remaining near the security forces' barricade.
• Four men from Loyalist east Belfast were arrested in Portadown, with police seizing pickaxe handles, petrol, wire cutters, and combat clothing.
• The Orange Order is desperate for its protest to pass peacefully to encourage Blair to reverse the Parades Commission decision to ban them from their traditional route.

Statistics:

• 27 Northern Ireland Assembly members were present during the discussion about the plan.
• 4 men were arrested in Portadown (County Armagh) by police for suspected Loyalist activity.
• Thousands of Orangemen marched from Portadown town centre to the annual Somme Commemoration service.
• The Orange Order has been protesting against the Parades Commission's decision to ban their traditional route for the second year running.

Sources:

• "Ulster Unionist leader attacks Sinn Fein over IRA disarmament", Unknown newspaper, Unknown date.
• "Drumcree Parade passes off peacefully", Unknown newspaper, Unknown date.
• "Mo Mowlam prepares for new role", Unknown newspaper, Unknown date.
• "Tony Blair considers meeting Ulster Unionists", Unknown newspaper, Unknown date.