DUP says further demands must be met

The DUP has revealed it plans a second series of demands before it considers whether it will share power with Sinn Féin.

Deputy leader Peter Robinson says even if they are satisfied the IRA has ended all activity, this on its own will not be enough.

His party released a 64-page list of demands today which he said will be followed by another list.

Unionists are seeking legislation for Orange Order parades and the retention of the Royal Irish Regiment.

Mr Robinson said if their needs are not in some way met, there will be no real progress in the political situation in the North.

Tony Blair, Peter Hain and Bertie Ahern welcomed the latest report, released yesterday by the Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC), which said the IRA appeared to be honouring its July 28 pledge to end its armed campaign.

Unionists have been more sceptical and have been angered by a series of what they claim are concessions to republicans, including the reinstatement of Sinn Féin’s Westminster allowances.