Loyalist representative group to meet Ahern

A group with links to the Ulster Defence Association is to meet with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern this evening to discuss loyalist concerns over aspects of the peace process.

It is understood that among the items on the "open" agenda of the talks between the Irish Prime Minister and members of the Ulster Political Research Group are the UDA ceasefire, loyalist prisoners and an input from loyalist leaders into the review of the Good Friday Agreement.

Representative of the group are due to meet Northern Ireland Secretary of State early next month.

Following a meeting with the group on Thursday January 22, NIO Security Minister Jane Kennedy declared that efforts towards political development in loyalist areas were "seriously undermined" by paramilitary activities.

Ms Kennedy said: "The Government has always said that we will work with those who want to engage in democratic politics. I recognise the constructive approach of the UPRG and acknowledge their contribution towards ensuring that Northern Ireland had the most peaceful summer for many years. I and other Ministers are listening to them. But they must recognise that tackling the many social and economic problems that grip loyalist working class areas cannot be done effectively against a background of widespread and continuing paramilitary activity".

The Minister told the UPRG that attacks on prison officers' homes, hoax bombs at schools and elsewhere in the city and involvement in drugs and organised crime were totally unacceptable.

On the situation in Maghaberry Prison, the Minister said: "We are working hard with the prison service and prison officers to develop a safe regime for prisoners and prison officers. But a prison run by prisoners - as the Maze was - is safe for no one and that is not going to happen".

On demands that the Government recognise that the UDA is on ceasefire, Ms Kennedy said: "We need actions not words. Pipe bombs and politics are not compatible".

Sinn Féin said it is to organise a rally in protest at the meeting tonight between the UPRG and the Taoiseach.

(SP)