Paisley warning over 'concessions' to republicans

British Prime Minister Tony Blair is set to offer republicans even more concessions in a bid to restore devolution in Northern Ireland, the Rev Ian Paisley claimed today.

With Dublin and London locked in frantic efforts to break the deadlock in the peace process, the Democratic Unionist leader also demanded an urgent meeting with Mr Blair.

The North Antrim MP claimed the governments were already set to slash troop levels around border areas and allow on-the-run paramilitaries to return.

And he added: “The only way they can get this sorted is by greater concessions to the IRA.”

Even though Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Prime Minister Tony Blair called off plans to unveil their blueprint for resolving all outstanding issues at Hillsborough Castle, Co Down yesterday, Downing Street officials were today still trying to end the crisis.

But Mr Paisley has called for talks with the Prime Minister to discuss the level of opposition to the peace deal.

He said: “I have written to Mr Blair asking him when is he going to condescend to come off his high horse, meet representatives of the majority of unionists and cease treating them like political lepers.

“Discrimination against unionists will not succeed.”