All paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland must be fully disbanded before its citizens can enjoy a future of peace and prosperity, according to former SDLP leader John Hume.
Mr Hume also called for the speedy decommissioning of IRA weapons and greater harmony between the Protestant and Catholic communities.
Speaking at an Ireland France Chamber of Commerce event today, Mr Hume said: "I don't just want to see the decommissioning of weapons. I want to see the IRA cease to exist whatsoever, as well as every other paramilitary organisations."
The 1998 Nobel Peace Prize winner warned that violence had no role in bringing divided communities together. "Violence only deepens divisions," he said. "There is no role for any organisation of any description if it uses violence. I want to see them all ended."
The former MEP explained that the energies of all communities in Northern Ireland should be harnessed to build a better society.
"I want to see people living and working together, promoting north and south relations and economic development. A new Ireland will evolve in a generation but it must be based on total agreement and mutual respect between Protestant and Catholic communities."
Mr Hume, a former French teacher, was invited to speak at the Ireland France Chamber of Commerce agm because of his links with the country and its language and culture.
PA