Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The fifth report of the IRC was brought to Government in December. Overall, the IRC has not altered its view that the risks posed to society by the continuing existence of paramilitary groups and structures means paramilitarism remains a clear and present danger in Northern Ireland. Six new recommendations are contained in the fifth report, including a further recommendation on the paramilitary group transition to which the Deputy refers. The commission recommended that the governments consider appointing an independent person to engage with the groups on transition. The remaining recommendations focus on matters particular to Northern Ireland, relating to joined-up collaborative working, organised crime legislation in Northern Ireland and the need for continued financial support for efforts to tackle paramilitarism.

The report and its recommendations on possible mechanisms to progress transition and disbandment of all remaining paramilitary groups was considered by the two governments at the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference on 19 January in Farmleigh, which I attended. It was agreed the recommendations would remain on the agenda of the intergovernmental conference and be discussed at ministerial level at its next meeting. Our officials were asked to consider the matter further in the intervening period. I and my Department are committed to continued constructive engagement with the commission on this matter and on its work in 2023.

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