Catholic leader to meet loyalist paramilitary chiefs

The head of the Catholic Church in Ireland is to meet loyalist paramilitary leaders later this week.

Cardinal Sean Brady will urge the Ulster Defence Association (UDA) to hand over weapons as pressure mounts for decommissioning.

Northern Ireland Secretary Shaun Woodward has threatened the group, responsible for a string of sectarian murders during the conflict, with sanctions if it does not act soon.

Loyalist representative Frankie Gallagher said: “In terms of weaponry, we can give reassurance to the Cardinal that that is being managed and it’s being managed by the UDA.

“Loyalism has been on this route for about three or four years now. What I am saying is there’s a clear route now, people are trying to lend support. I believe the UDA is managing very well, I think it is positive.”

The meeting with the UDA-linked Ulster Political Research Group (UPRG) will take place at the Cardinal’s private residence in Armagh.

Mr Woodward has threatened to revoke legislation protecting loyalists from prosecution if they give up arms. He wants to see action as soon as possible.

First Minister Peter Robinson has praised loyalist leaders for not becoming involved in tit-for-tat violence following the dissident republican gun murders of two soldiers and a policeman last month.