Ahern and Adams to assess peace process

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams are to discuss the Northern Ireland peace process in Dublin on Monday.

The meeting has been requested by Sinn Fein because of what they today called ‘‘a need for a rigorous review of progress made so far in implementing the Good Friday Agreement.’’

Speaking after a meeting of the party’s Ard Chomhairle in Dublin today Caoimhghin O Caolain highlighted the ‘‘serious escalation in Loyalist-orchestrated sectarian attacks across Belfast, with a real and palpable sense of fear and intimidation in communities.’’

He added: ‘‘The Good Friday Agreement guarantees everybody the right to live free from sectarian harassment.

‘‘But in the current climate of fear and intimidation, these are just meaningless words.

‘‘It is also patently clear that there is a major battle taking place within the political leadership of unionism, which is putting pressure on the process.’’

Mr O Caolain, who represents the Cavan-Monaghan constituency in the Dail, said: ‘‘There is a need for a vigorous review of progress made in implementing the agreement.

‘‘And this has to include the two governments’ record of delivering on their obligations.

‘‘The British Government, in particular, has a case to answer in relation to its failure to deliver a new policing service and on crucial issues, such as demilitarisation, equality agenda and a bill of rights.

‘‘This must be the focus of all the pro-agreement parties and the two governments in the coming period.’’

Today’s Dublin meeting also repeated Sinn Fein’s call for a full public judicial independent inquiry into the killing of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane, following charges of security force involvement in the murder.

Mr O Caolain said: ‘‘The implications for resolving the policing issue and all that is involved in this cannot be overstated.’’