Devolved government restored as Trimble calls on IRA to fulfil obligations

The Northern institutions are now effectively up and running again after a gap of nearly four months. However, First Minister David Trimble has cautioned that the institutions can only be consolidated when the IRA fulfils its obligations on weapons. Mr Trimble said that people in the North have once again been given the opportunity to shape their own destiny. He said that a significant number of Unionists were unhappy with the return to devolved government but he added their fears would be diminished if Republicans carried out their undertakings promptly. He said that it was hoped that the institutions would take root and that the Rubicon had been crossed.

Mr Trimble today met his deputy at the head of the Executive, Seamus Mallon. Mr Mallon said that he felt it was crucial for everyone to work hard at recreating the hope and inspiration which exists in the Good Friday Agreement. He said that he also hoped the head of the decommissioning body General John de Chastelain would be able to make a report on the arms issue by the end of June.

Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon re-entered Stormont this morning for talks with officials and to re-introduce themselves to staff. Most of the ministers are now expected to return to Stormont ahead of the Executive meeting which takes place on Thursday. On his arrival at parliament buildings, Mr Mallon said that he would be doing what should have been done two years ago, giving people hope and confidence in the administration. Mr Mallon also said that he believed people would not tolerate another blockage of the Executive.

It is still not know whether the DUP will be taking up their seats in the power-sharing Executive. The party has been fiercely critical of the Ulster Unionist Council decision on Saturday to return to government with Sinn Féin.