Northern Ireland was bracing itself today for another difficult period as the parties attempt to find their way out of the political mire in the formidable shadow of Drumcree.
The resignation of Mr David Trimble as First Minister of the Northern Assembly has concentrated minds as they contemplate an intensive round of discussions over the next six weeks to settle the outstanding issues in the political process.
There are fears that loyalist paramilitaries intent on violence could take advantage of anger within their community over yesterday’s decision by the Parades Commission to prevent Orangemen from walking down the nationalist Garvaghy Road in Portadown, Co Armagh.
Talks are due to resume later this week hosted by Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Dr John Reid, and Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Brian Cowen, as they bring together the pro-Agreement parties in a bid to resolve the issues of IRA decommissioning, police reform and demilitarisation.
The Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern, and British Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair, are to join the talks next week.
The United States added its voice to the call for a solution. It said yesterday it regretted Mr Trimble's resignation and urged him not to walk away from his role as supporter of the peace process.
It also called on armed groups to give up their guns. "Guns have no part to play in democratic politics. The (Good Friday) agreement calls for decommissioning," said US State Department spokesman Mr Richard Boucher.
He said Mr Richard Haass, director of State Department policy planning, remained in touch with Northern Irish parties to try to move the process forward.
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