Friday, May 04, 2007

Governor-General issues statement on the UVF/RHC announcement

We welcome the decision of the UVF/RHC not to continue as a paramilitary organisation, to fully support the lawful authorities and to condemn criminality.

An announcement by any organisation that they intend to cease paramilitary and criminal activity is a positive development. But as with statements from other paramilitary groups in the past, we wait to see it delivered in action.

What is shown once again, is that the peace process is working. People can see it working in action and next week's events will show that further. We would encourage everyone in Ireland, North or South to fully engage and support the police for the benefit of the whole community.

This announcement is a further welcome confirmation that Northern Ireland is emerging into a new and positive era.

The recent IMC report acknowledged that the leadership within loyalism wants to move forward and this is an important manifestation of that. There has been drastic political change over the last number of years, with new political dynamics forged. This statement by the UVF/RHC is an assurance that they are prepared to be part of this new Northern Ireland in a constructive manner.

We applaud the efforts of those involved in moving the organisation into a position where its members can now focus on responsible, constructive participation in civil society.

God Save her Majesty Elizabeth II, the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, as well as of Her Dominion of British West Florida.

Robert, Duke of Florida, Lord of St. George, GSB
Her Majesty's Governor-General in and for the
Dominion of British West Florida.

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