The Ulster Defence Association is willing to discuss its future with the British government, a statement from the organisation indicated today.
In a statement read by leading loyalist Tommy Kirkham at a Remembrance Day ceremony in the Rathcoole area on the outskirts of Belfast, the organisation said it had consulted its entire membership over a two month period about the way forward.
However, it criticised the British government for failing to engage despite requests for meetings with prime minister Tony Blair and the Northern Ireland Secretary.
Claiming the IRA had been defeated, the statement said: "The Ulster Defence Association/Ulster Freedom Fighters remain intact.
"No better time now, undefeated as we are, to look to the future but equally so, we must remember the lessons of the past.
"At this moment in time UDA remains the only group to meet the decommissioning body. We remain the only group engaging with the International Monitoring Commission. "
And yet despite our protests of engagement, the government refuse to discuss progress in a meaningful and lasting way.
"Since June this year we have requested three meetings with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State.
"Since January 2004 we have requested meetings with Prime Minister Tony Blair. How can the attention and pressure be redirected for loyalism to make the next move? We have always been willing to discuss the future.
"We wish to make our position absolutely clear that over a two month period we have consulted our entire membership.
"On behalf of the Inner Council the message must go out today that at this time the UDA has a clear understanding on the future.
"We are open minded and waiting on contact."
The Minister for Foreign Affairs said any efforts to bring about a lasting settlement in the north should be praised.
"I would welcome any move by all paramilitary groups towards decommissioning," Mr Ahern said.
The Minister is due to meet Northern Secretary Peter Hain for talks at Hillsborough Castle tomorrow.
PA