SDLP leader calls for IRA statement on dissident threats

SDLP leader Mark Durkan has called on the Provisional IRA to make a statement about the dissident republican campaign of intimidation against nationalists who sit on district policing partnership bodies in the North.

Sinn Féin has already rejected allegations by PSNI chief constable Hugh Orde that "mainstream" republicans were involved in the campaign.

The party has also condemned the threats and expressed support for those targeted, saying they had a right to carry out their jobs without fear of intimidation.

Mr Durkan said today said it would be helpful if the IRA also issued a statement unequivocally condemning the threats.