Real IRA members oppose disbandment

The father of a man killed in the Omagh bombing is asking the Government to say whether this week's announcement by prisoners linked to the Real IRA is part of a deal.

Real IRA prisoners in Portlaoise and Britain say the group is disbanding but those outside jail are pledging to continue their violent campaign.

Michael Gallagher, whose 21-year-old son, Aidan, was killed in the bombing says he fears this week's statement by Real IRA prisoners in Portlaoise is part of a deal for their early release.

He is asking the Government to come clean and say if any concessions and incentives were given.

The Portlaoise statement denied any prisoner had been involved in negotiations with the Irish or British governments to get early release.

The Real IRA appears to be split over the statement announcing its disbandment.

Supporters outside jail are said to be furious at the statement, including the dissident republicans' new chief of staff, based in Dundalk, Co Louth.

Three Portlaoise prisoners linked to the Real IRA also opposed the statement and have been segregated from their former associates for their own safety.