A statement faxed to The Irish Times last night by An Phoblacht on behalf of the IRA stated: "On 8 March 2001, the IRA leadership reestablished contact with the IICD. Since then the IRA representative has met with the IICD eight times. As a result of these discussions we can confirm that the IRA leadership has agreed a scheme with the IICD which will put IRA arms completely and verifiably beyond use.
"We note the ongoing attempts in some quarters to prevent progress. They should not be permitted to succeed.
"Our representative will continue to meet with the IICD.
"The IRA leadership will continue to monitor political developments."
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P O'Neill, Irish Republican Publicity Bureau, Dublin