British govt 'surrendering' to IRA - Paisley

The Democratic Unionist Party today warned the British government it would pay a high price for its programme of demilitarisation in Northern Ireland.

The Revered Ian Paisley accused ministers of rushing key security decisions just days after the IRA announced it was to decommission its weapons.

The DUP leader confirmed he would set out his party’s agenda when he meets Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain on Wednesday.

Speaking on the steps of Stormont, Mr Paisley said: “The government’s so-called normalisation programme will have a profound effect on the political process in Northern Ireland.

“It is a surrender to the IRA and is further evidence of bad faith on the part of the (British) government.

“We are appalled at the dishonest and dangerous approach of the government with today’s announcement of ‘normalisation’ and we want to make it clear that it will pay a high price for the approach that is being taken.”

Mr Paisley questioned how the British government could trust the IRA so soon after the Provisionals vowed to give up their arms.

He also claimed the decisions were based on a political deal as opposed to security considerations.

“This bilateral agreement between the government and the IRA will have serious consequences for the political process.

“The Secretary of State may believe that today’s statement will bring forward devolution but the reality is that it will delay its return.”