IRA says its 'armed resistance' will continue: Statement says talks are possible, but must be 'without preconditions'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.THE IRA insisted last night that the 'violent denial of their national rights' would continue to be met with armed resistance in Northern Ireland and elsewhere.
A spokesman said the IRA would talk to the British government at any time but said that dialogue must be without preconditions. He said: 'Those who have power to resolve this conflict will find republicans are people they can do business with.'
He rejected the British government's conditions for talks, which he described as 'abject and total surrender' by the IRA followed by a period for assessment before any talks.
The statement followed the meeting between the Sinn Fein president, Gerry Adams, and John Hume, leader of the SDLP, and an earlier meeting with the IRA by Senator Gordon Wilson, father of Marie Wilson, murdered in the Enniskillen bombing.
The IRA spokesman, responding to criticism of the terrorists following the Warrington bombings, said: 'Personal condemnations from any side in the conflict are insufficient in themselves to move the situation along.'
He said no one could fail to be moved by personal tragedies whether it was a Marie Wilson, an Ian Gow (Margaret Thatcher's parliamentary private secretary) or a Julie Livingstone, a 14-year-old girl killed by a soldier's plastic bullet 10 years ago.
'The tragedy and suffering are all the same. Everybody bleeds and everybody cries. Our actions arose out of political conditions and they require a political settlement.'
The Irish government cautiously welcomed the talks between Mr Hume and Mr Adams. A spokesman said: 'We believe Mr Hume would not have engaged in such contacts if they did not appear worthwhile.'
Mr Hume has said he was 'only hopeful' the discussions may lead to an end to the violence.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments