The statement by a group representing loyalist paramilitaries, on a first-strike policy has been welcomed by politicians and clergy but nationalists and republicans remain sceptical.
The statement calls for an end to the recent spate of violence in Belfast and states a first-strike policy where they pledge not to initiate violence against nationalists.
One source close to the Commission described the move as "truly historic", saying it was "as significant as the ceasefire announcement by the paramilitary organisations in 1994." Sinn Féin has called for a meeting with the Commission.
|
The statement was welcomed by the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, saying he hoped it would ease tensions in the flashpoint areas in north and east Belfast. "Hopefully the statement this morning by the loyalist groups will be reciprocated on and will help to ease tensions over the coming weeks."
The Northern Ireland Secretary Dr John Reid and First Minster David Trimble also reacted positively to the news from the British-Irish Council meeting in Jersey. The Taoiseach and the Britsh Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair are also at the meeting.
But SDLP leader Mr Mark Durkan demanded evidence that loyalist attacks had ended. "Those who have suffered from syndicated sectarian violence and abuse will have to be forgiven for believing that this loyalist statement is somewhere between a figment and a figleaf."
Sinn Féin’s north Belfast MLA, Mr Gerry Kelly is also sceptical. "We have heard statements like this before from loyalist groups, particularly the UDA in North Belfast. Each time they have been followed by more attacks on Catholic families and their homes," he said.
He said the statement may be useful but that nationalist communities would judge its value by its effect on the ground.
His deputy leader Mr Martin McGuinness was more positive and called on the Commission to meet his party. "I actually think that it would be useful if the Loyalist Commission and all of those who are in it would recognise the importance, for example, of meeting the Sinn Féin leadership."
Mr Trimble is seeking a meeting with Sinn Féin in the wake of the statement aimed at ending rioting that has engulfed parts of north and east Belfast in the past month.
Welcoming the move, he said: "We cannot approach the future transfixed with community tensions and the further potential of violence on a scale as witnessed in Belfast over recent days."
Dr Reid also reacted positively: "I think it is encouraging, it is positive and it is a step forward in resolving some of the terrible difficulties we have in Belfast."
"I think it is also important that they have called for positive contact between the communities," he added.
The statement called on loyalists not to instigate fighting, called for an end to attacks on the security forces, and urged republicans to respond with a similar gesture.
It also said that respect for both communities at peace lines was "essential".
The Loyalist Commission is an umbrella group consisting of church leaders, politicians and representatives of the Ulster Defence Association and the Ulster Volunteer Force.