Leaked Stakeknife reports tried to wreck peace process - Cowen

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Brian Cowen, has condemned what he called "leaks and anonymous briefings" over the alleged British mole inside the IRA.

Speaking in London last night, he said the leaks appeared intended to destabilise the North's political process.

Brian Cowen was echoing what both the SDLP and Sinn Fein have already said about the Stakeknife affair, that it's timing at a critical point in the peace process and the anonymous leaks fuelling it seem suspicious.

Asked about the possibility of an inquiry he suggested that the report on collusion now being prepared by retired Canadian Judge, Peter Cory, could "provide a context".

Mr. Cowen reiterated the Government's determination to overcome what he described as 'disagreements and setbacks' in the process.

He claimed both governments were now setting up a 'a pro-active agenda' which would work to end the political stalemate.