THE Alliance Party has called for decommissioning and substantive political issues to be debated separately at all party talks so that progress is not blocked.

The proposals were outlined as the party launched its election manifesto yesterday. Alliance is committed to inclusive talks and acceptance of the Mitchell principles.

It is fighting the election under the slogan, "Make It Work". The party leader, Dr John Alderdice, said he was confident it could reap electoral rewards from the peace process.

He believed the peace forum and all party talks could still be successful. Alliance is committed to a regional power sharing government for Northern Ireland Bill of Rights to protect every citizen and to prevent discrimination and a "constructive and cooperative" North South relationship.

On crossbred cooperation, the manifesto states. "The environment, transport infrastructure, tourism and animal health are just a few of the sectors where better co-operation could be in all our interests.

"It is also true that there are areas where we are in competition with each other and we should recognise that." The party also outlined its support for the right of the people of Northern Ireland to decide their own future, with no change in the constitutional position without their consent.

Alliance is fielding 60 candidates in all 18 constituencies. Dr Alderdice warned that all negotiations would fail if the parties did not, show flexibility.

He urged the electorate to turn away from the set positions of unionism and nationalism. "If, on the other hand, people strengthen the Alliance mandate, then the talks will start with a momentum towards agreement and the prospects for an honorable settlement and the building of the peace will be immeasurably improved", he said.

Dr Alderdice stressed that it was important to reach agreement at all-party talks. "Failure in this present process will, in all probability, lead to the two governments making such arrangements as they see fit for the future of Northern Ireland. This is our opportunity as the people of Northern Ireland to have our say in deciding our own future."