LVF pledge to end loyalist feud

A feud between two rival loyalists paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland appear to be over today following the Loyalist Volunteer Force’s statement that is was moving to prevent further attacks.

Progressive Unionist leader David Ervine welcomed the statement from the LVF which had been in conflict with the Ulster Volunteer Force.

The East Belfast Assembly member, whose party is linked to the UVF, said: “I believe that the UVF will be keeping a watching brief after the statement.

“I believe the UVF will be judging it by actions or lack of action rather than by words.

“If it holds, then it is good news for the unionist community who through a process of recurring feuds have suffered enough.

“It should allow us all in the loyalist community to get on with the life that we have to live.”

Tensions between the two organisations have been high in recent days following the murder of LVF member Brian Stewart in east Belfast last week.

There have been a series of bomb attacks in loyalist areas following the murder.

Sinn Féin had also in recent days expressed concern that the loyalist feud could have a negative impact on efforts to ensure a quiet summer in sectarian flash point areas of east Belfast.

In its statement last night the LVF said no more loyalists should die at the hands of other loyalists.

It also called for mechanisms to be put in place to prevent feuding.

The group also committed itself to “disarm and disband those who sparked the latest in fighting.”

Unionist politicians have in recent days met security chiefs and been involved in efforts to end the feud.

Mr Ervine praised their role and the involvement of others at a community level to calm the situation.