UDA apologises for involvement in drugs

The UDA said that the drugs problem in Northern Ireland would have to be "contested in every way possible'' and advised all its members to steer clear of any involvement.

It added: “For those individuals who were known to be members of our organisation and were previously involved in any such behaviour, we apologise.”

With Northern Ireland approaching a new Protestant marching season, the statement supported the right of the Orange Order and other organisations to march.

It also pledged to provide community support and advice to alleviate problems over marches.

“The overall position we will adopt is that the individual preceptories, lodges, districts and clubs will determine how the re-routing of parades will affect their membership and we will support whatever lawful protests that ensue,” it said.

The UDA said it was prepared through the Ulster Political Research Group to accommodate fresh proposals and initiatives from within the Unionist and Protestant community to meet their needs.

The UDA said it was urging its community to remain vigilant and not respond to attacks on loyalist areas from the IRA should it try to destabilise the communities over the coming months.

“Therefore we are stating quite clearly that it is the responsibility of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the other security services to protect life and property in the Unionist, Protestant community.

“The Ulster Defence Association will as always be the last line of defence.”