UUP minister: IRA's position not enough

Ulster Unionist Minister Michael McGimpsey has claimed negotiations are moving "inexorably" towards cementing the peace process but said the IRA’s current position was not yet enough.

He said: "I don’t want to be begrudging, I welcome this.

"The republicans move in small steps, so this is a small step, but it’s a step in the right direction.

"I believe that we are moving inexorably towards making sure that this process actually works.

"I think we have a time problem. Our time runs at the weekend and that is a matter of course for decisions from the Secretary of State (John Reid).

"This has potential and we want to see that potential realised."

But he added: "I don’t believe, for example, that it permits David Trimble to be re-elected as First Minister between now and the weekend."

Mr McGimpsey would not be drawn on what lay ahead for the institutions and said of any decision to be taken by Dr Reid: "I don’t think it would be wise for him to make it until the weekend, on Saturday.

"There is still time for republicans to move on this crucial issue and if they make their move between now and the weekend then I believe we will see things restored."