The following is an edited statement welcoming the IRA move by the leader of Fine Gael, Mr Noonan:
I recognise the historic significance of the development and congratulate all who have contributed to making it possible.
I welcome in particular the reference in the Provisional IRA statement to their motivation for the steps now taken. They have done so to save the peace process and to persuade others of their genuine intentions.
This clear recognition and acceptance of the will of the Irish people, as expressed in the referendums on the Good Friday Agreement, is especially welcome. I now look forward to similar moves by the loyalist paramilitaries.
I also look forward to continuing to work with all the parties to the Good Friday Agreement to ensure that all its elements are implemented in full. The Agreement is the best possible basis for peace and stability on the island of Ireland and for good relations between the people of Ireland and Britain.