Sir, - Forgive me for being cynical about the whole issue of decommissioning in the peace process. It seems this issue is now being used to prevent dialogue. Surely we all know that in other similar conflicts, from South Africa to Palestine to Bosnia, arms have been handed in before peace negotiations. Disarming needs to be part of peace negotiations and not a pre condition. Most sensible, objective people accept this. as a sensible way forward
On a recent visit to Belfast, I was stopped twice by the British Army. I as not particularly impressed with their legally held weapons pointing at me. However, I would still be prepared to talk to their political representatives, to help take the gun out of Irish politics. Let's stop the posturing and get on with the talks. - Yours, etc.,
Charlemont, Griffith Avenue, Dublin 9.