North peace talks - Working relationship is possible

THE unfinished business which prevents the restoration of devolution in Northern Ireland, and consequently the re-instatement of the Executive and Assembly, requires what seems intrinsically implausible: agreement between Gerry Adams and Ian Paisley.

Since the institutions were suspended almost two years ago, the political landscape in the North has changed dramatically, with Sinn Féin and the Democratic Unionist Party emerging as the two dominant parties representing their communities.

Both parties must adopt a pragmatic approach to the key issues which remain to be addressed, if the crucial negotiations are to be a catalyst for progress.

It would be folly to expect the talks, chaired by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and British Prime Minister Tony Blair, to produce an immediate remedy to the impasse, despite Mr Blair saying it was the “moment of decision.”

The last thing the North needs is a quick-fix solution which will begin to unravel as soon as the parties are back in Belfast, but at least the omens are encouraging. It is recognised that issues like decommissioning, policing, the IRA, as well as a Unionist commitment to making the institutions effective, have to be dealt with conclusively, although they are not the only ones.

The presence of general John de Chastelain in Belfast underlines speculation that there may be movement by the IRA on further decommissioning. Indeed, Gerry Adams has indicated that Unionists’ concerns on this question could be assuaged.

But, as Mr Blair has made clear, decommissioning of paramilitary weapons includes Loyalist weapons too; it isn’t just an issue for Republicans. Essentially, all parties must accept that mutual declarations of undying love are not essential for a healthy working relationship.