INLA Disarms

A top republican politician has welcomed news of the disarmament of a violent republican group.

The Irish National Liberation Army (Arm Saoirse Náisiúnta na hÉireann) or INLA was formed in December 1974.

A spokesman for the republican terror group, Martin McMonagle, made the announcement of arms being disposed off at a press conference in Belfast on Monday morning.

He said: "We can also confirm that the INLA has disarmed through a joint facilitation group consisting of local, a national and an international organisation.

"We believe conditions have now changed in such a way that other options are open to revolutionaries to pursue and ultimately achieve our objectives."

"This was done in a process in accordance with international standards," he said.

Sinn Féin Assembly member Gerry Kelly has welcomed the reports that the INLA has put its weapons beyond use.

Stormont Junior Minister Kelly said: "I welcome the news that the INLA has put its weapons beyond use.

"The peace process has ensured that a peaceful and democratic path to a united Ireland exists. There is no support for or appetite for armed actions within the republican community.

"The INLA has recognised this by engaging with the IICD in this action. Other small militarist factions, both republican and loyalist, who are opposed to the peace process need now also to reflect on their position given the political realities of 2010 and end their futile armed actions."

Meanwhile, the Real UFF – C 'Company' has made a threat that Mr Kelly "will be executed within 24 hours" and there has also been a death threat on Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams.

(BMcC/GK)