DUP’s Paisley warns Sinn Féin that time is running out over policing issue
The hard-line New Year message is believed to have disappointed Dublin and London following weeks of pressure from the two governments for movement on the contentious law and order issue. They had hoped for a more positive response to Sinn Féin’s decision to call a special ard fheis on civil policing this month.
However, Dr Paisley warned words would not be enough and Sinn Féin had given itself only three weeks to prove it was committed to the rule of law.
“This process is not about deadlines or dates. Gerry Adams has asked that the government and unionists respond to Sinn Féin’s latest ‘initiative’ positively. Unionists stand ready to respond but have been denied opportunity because we must have something of substance to which we can respond,” Dr Paisley said.
He added the DUP would “not be found wanting” if Sinn Féin delivered more than words on the policing issue. The tough talking by Dr Paisley was seen as an attempt to shore-up support among sections of the DUP for the possible restoration of devolution in March.
Sinn Féin President Adams told republicans at the weekend that now was the time for them to get involved with policing.
He said that he wanted a frank debate before the party’s special Ard Fheis.
“For years republicans stayed outside policing because that was the best way to bring about change. Now we want to move in because that’s the best way to maximise the change that has been secured,” he said.
