The IRA has ruled out decommissioning but has welcomed the Belfast Agreement as a "significant development".
In its first public comment since the signing of the agreement on Good Friday, the IRA said there appeared to be "yet another attempt to resurrect the decommissioning issue as an obstacle to progress".
"Let us make it clear that there will be no decommissioning by the IRA". The statement, which is carried in the current edition of An Phoblacht, continued that the issue of decommissioning "as with any other matter affecting the IRA, its functions and objectives, is a matter only for the IRA, to be decided upon and pronounced by us".
The organisation's verdict on the Good Friday document was that it "clearly falls short of presenting a solid basis for a lasting settlement" but marks "a significant development".
"Whether or not this heralds a transformation of the situation is dependent totally on the will of the British government," the statement said.
"The leadership of Oglaigh na hEireann have considered carefully the Good Friday document. It remains our position that a durable peace settlement demands the end of British rule in Ireland and the exercise of the right of the people of Ireland to national self determination," the statement continued.
"In our view the two imminent referenda do not constitute the exercise of national self-determination and voters' attitudes to the referenda should be guided by their own view and the advice of their political leaders."
The organisation said it was mindful of its responsibilities and of the "need for continued vigilance during these challenging times".
"We are aware also of those who will resist any dynamic for change.
"They need to face up to the reality that peace demands justice, equality and national rights for the people of Ireland," the statement said.
The IRA commended the efforts of Sinn Fein.
"They can be confident of our desire to see all republicans engage in their decision-making process at this time in a constructive and positive way."
The organisation said it wished Sinn Fein further success in the development of their peace strategy and said it remained clear that movement towards a lasting peace is a shared responsibility of all political leaders.
"We face the future united and dedicated to the struggle for Irish unity and Independence," the statement concluded.