The SDLP leader Mark Durkan said today that the existence of the IRA remains the main obstacle to nationalist dreams of achieving a united Ireland.
In an Easter message, Mr Durkan, whose party is facing a fierce battle against Sinn Fein to hold onto its three Westminster seats, said the key to securing Irish unity was through persuasion and not coercion.
"The existence of the IRA is only making the task of persuasion more difficult," said the Foyle Assembly member.
"It is holding up the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. It is holding back getting people working together, building trust and encouraging unionists to see their position on this island in a new light.
"Of course there are other things holding up progress on this island - like the DUP's intransigence.
"But despite this, it remains in the best interest of Irish nationalism that the IRA goes away so that democratic nationalism across this island can better persuade unionists that there is no threat to them in a united Ireland in which the Good Friday Agreement continues and everyone's rights are protected."
Mr Durkan said the only way nationalism would progress in Northern Ireland would be for all of its advocates to fully embrace democracy and guarantee the Good Friday Agreement would endure.
He said: "The Provisional Movement needs to wake up to changed times and join the SDLP and other democratic parties on this island for what is the only viable path to unity - through peaceful, democratic persuasion."
PA