This summer was the most peaceful Northern Ireland has seen for a long time. In recent weeks, however, we have seen an upsurge in violence, consisting mostly of loyalist attacks on Catholics. This is simply unacceptable and must be tackled. If there are people in these communities with any influence at all I encourage them to help in whatever way they can to bring about a cessation of this activity. I am not sure whether all sides realise that the IMC, which we are discussing today, is for both sides of the community; republicans and loyalists can benefit from it. It will become part of the architecture of the peace process. Those who suggest it is incompatible with the Good Friday Agreement or outside it are missing a vital point. It is there to help. Any fair-minded person must believe it will be a positive development. If paramilitary activity is a thing of the past why should anyone have any objection to that fact being stated? The commission can also investigate some of the mischievous allegations which could undermine confidence. When the institutions are re-established, as they should be soon, it is to be hoped this stop-start progress will be a thing of the past. The commission will be a positive influence in this respect.