Ahern and Adams clash over IRA statement

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern and Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams clashed last night over the IRA’s statement on its future intentions.

"In a context where the full delivery of the Agreement is on offer, including participation in government, democratic politics and continued paramilitarism simply do not mix," Mr Ahern said.

In an Easter appeal five years after the Good Friday Agreement, the Taoiseach said republicans had to clearly state their intentions. The time had come for the republican movement to complete the changeover to the sole use of peaceful and democratic ways, he said.