IRA challenge no election ploy - Adams

Gerry Adams’ appeal to the IRA to consider abandoning the armed struggle and pursue its goals through politics was a genuine attempt to drive the peace process forward, he insisted today.

The west Belfast MP welcomed the IRA’s confirmation today that it would give due consideration to his dramatic appeal yesterday.

But he denied his challenge to the Provisionals was an electoral ploy to boost Sinn Féin’s vote.

“There is never a good time,” the Sinn Féin leader said.

“This is about leadership. It is about trying to give leadership in difficult circumstances.

“The thinking had nothing to do with elections.”