Rabitte: 'Paramilitaries ‘not about to abandon crime'

Paramilitary involvement in criminal activities is unlikely to dissolve soon, Labour leader Pat Rabbitte claimed today.

During the first joint visit to Belfast with Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny, Mr Rabbitte said their discussions with the Rev. Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionists had focused on the need for loyalist and republican involvement in crime to disappear.

Mr.Rabitte said: "If you are waiting for the day when every paramilitary in Northern Ireland abandons crime, I do not think it is likely that we will see the dawning of that day soon.

"It would be immensely helpful if Sinn Féin were to take its seats on the Policing Board.

"We had a very useful and a positive exchange of views with the DUP.

"They clearly feel if this issue of connections with criminality is not dealt with by November 24, then it is not likely to be dealt with thereafter."

Mr Kenny and Mr Rabbitte's joint visit was being interpreted north of the border as the first opportunity for parties in the province to get a sense of what a Fine Gael and Labour coalition would offer if it defeats the current government in next year's general election.

Mr Kenny said both parties had consistently supported the Government in its efforts to advance the Good Friday Agreement.

He said this was the first in a series of visits.

The Fine Gael leader said they had raised a number of issues with Hugh Orde, the Northern Ireland Chief Constable.

"We discussed criminality, the reorganisation of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the dismantling of watch towers, the reorganisation of barracks and recruitment."