Declaration by 'Real IRA' of complete and total cessation
I note the statement appearing under the name of the organisation calling itself 'the Real IRA' declaring a complete and total cessation. On the basis that this statement is now put fully into effect and is final, would represent both an important and a positive development.
It will not unfortunately bring the dead of Omagh back to life, heal the injured or comfort their families. It will therefore not affect the unrelenting determination of the two Governments to pursue the perpetrators of this and other crimes, and bring them to justice.
It is now essential that any remaining organisation not yet on ceasefire clarifies its position as a matter of urgency. The Government are determined to achieve from now a complete and permanent end to all paramilitary violence on this island, using as necessary both the existing and recently passed legislation. We want to create the best possible climate for the implementation of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement that was massively endorsed by the people of Ireland.
Monday, 7th September, 1998