LIFE IN Northern Ireland has improved immensely in recent years as violence has diminished and the effects of the peace process have taken hold. There are economic and social problems. And serious distrust still exists between the communities. But the Provisional IRA has departed; a devolved, powersharing government is in place and there has been a transfer of justice and policing powers from Westminster. The way lies open for the continuing normalisation of society.
The Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) has contributed in no small way to these developments. Established in 2004 by the Irish and British governments, its work involves all paramilitary organisations. Its regular comments on the continuing threat posed by loyalist and dissident republicans, along with attribution of their various involvements in criminality and violent activities, has motivated politicians to reach difficult compromises rather than permit a slide back into anarchy. Six years after its establishment, however, the two governments believe it has fulfilled its intended function and the next report will be its last. That exercise will provide an overview of paramilitary trends and activities and the threats they pose.
It is a depressing reality that extreme republicans still believe war and street violence can force unionists and nationalists into a so-called socialist republic. Oglaigh na hÉireann, which split from the Real IRA and draws support from former Provisional IRA and INLA members, insists that military action can achieve a united Ireland. It is actively recruiting and training young members and has been involved in robberies, kidnapping and extortion. There is equally disturbing news from within the loyalist community. The IMC found the UDA and the UVF are continuing to recruit, which is inconsistent with their ceasefire commitments. Leadership has fragmented and criminal activity continues. Falling living standards are likely to make the peace process and devolved government more vulnerable. Because of that, purveyors of intolerance and hate must be rejected.