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Arms legislation extension sought DUP meets loyalists over weapons
(about 10 hours later)
The government is to seek the renewal of the legislation which allows the weapons decommissioning body to function, later on Thursday. Senior figures from the DUP are to meet loyalist paramilitaries in the coming weeks to discuss decommissioning.
Last month opposition MPs on the relevant Westminster committee indicated they would oppose the move. Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson told a committee of MPs in Westminster the meeting would be between party members and UDA and UVF representatives.
This was because of the failure of most loyalist paramilitaries, primarily the UDA and UVF, to give up their weapons. The government has agreed to give loyalists more time to decommission.
It is expected a compromise proposal, allowing six months for significant progress to made, will win support. The amnesty period has been extended for one year, but will be reviewed in six months.
It has been 14 years since loyalist paramilitary groups declared their ceasefires. Mr Donaldson said it has to be the "last chance" for loyalists.
In a speech in May, Shaun Woodward issued a warning to the UDA and UVF that the structures governing decommissioning were "time limited". "We're engaging with paramilitary organisations, not for the purpose of giving them credibility in the democratic world, but to make sure that they take the steps that are necessary to end violence and criminality, to remove their weapons and to enter into a fully democratic society," he said.
The Independent International Commission on Decommissioning is chaired by Canadian General John de Chastelain. Progress
It was established by a treaty between the British and Irish governments in September 1997. Security Mininster Paul Goggins said loyalists must begin the process of decommissioning now.
He told MPs that if significant progress was not made after six months, the amnesty period would be halted.
The move was welcomed reluctantly by the Conservatives. Lawrence Robertson MP said his party would support the extension with a "heavy heart ".
However, South Down MP Eddie McGrady of the SDLP, opposed the extension.
"With parliament not returning until October, little action can be taken until after the six month deadline, effectively allowing criminal gangs to continue their reign of terror in their communities for another year," he said.
"It is extremely disappointing that 14 years after their ceasefire the UDA are still to begin this process."
The plans will go to the House of Lords next week and if passed will then come into force.