IRA apology a step to lasting peace, says Ahern

THE IRA's unprecedented apology to civilian victims of the Troubles can help deliver lasting peace in Northern Ireland, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said last night.

But he also challenged the IRA and other paramilitaries to continue with decommissioning with a view to ultimately disbanding.

Mr Ahern said he was heartened by the IRA's reiteration that it was committed to the peace process.