Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I believe that the Government reacted in a balanced and responsible manner. We must bear in mind that there is a very dangerous vacuum at present. I ask republicans and Unionists to act in a responsible manner. We must remind ourselves that the republicans represented by Sinn Féin are the major Nationalist party in the North of Ireland. I appeal to Dr. Paisley and the DUP to give positive leadership to the people who put him in a position of authority. It is not helpful to sit on the fence.

Dr. Paisley's negative approach to every effort that is being made is not helpful. There needs to be a response from Unionists as well as republicans. There is no war. There has been full decommissioning, except by loyalist paramilitaries. We should not try to score any political points. We must move the situation forward in a united manner.