Ahern upbeat after arms report

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern last night insisted the ceasefire monitors’ report marked an important milestone to power sharing in the North.

Mr Ahern said he was encouraged by the findings, but the next survey in January will act as the real turning point.

Mr Ahern said: “Obviously, the initial signs are encouraging and important and are to be welcomed. It is too early to make a clear overall assessment.