IMC set to issue further positive assessment of IRA

The body set up to monitor paramilitary ceasefires in the North is expected to issue another positive assessment today about the IRA's moves to end all illegal activity.

The Independent Monitoring Commission has already told the Irish and British governments that the organisation is living up to its commitment on ending paramiltiarism and criminality.

It is expected to reaffirm this in a report today that will focus on the scale and timing of the British government's demilitarisation in the North.

The DUP has already refused to accept the IMC's previous assessment and is unlikely to be swayed by today's positive report.

The hardline unionist party is currently refusing point blank to share power with Sinn Féin, claiming the IRA is still deeply involved in illegal activity.