McAleese calls for end to ‘tradition of armed struggle’

President Mary McAleese has pleaded with republicans "to close the door on the tradition of armed struggle" for the sake of future generations.

Speaking at St Malachy's College in north Belfast last night, Mrs McAleese said the peace process was facing a difficult period, but all sides should make a renewed effort to achieve progress.

She said old patterns of thinking must give way to new ones that are unambiguously peaceful, lawful and egalitarian.

The President urged those involved in the peace process to show courage and honour their promises and commitments.