It's time for Sinn Fein to come clean
THE First Minister Peter Robinson has issued a timely and comprehensive response to Sinn Fein's latest posturing on the issue of the devolution of policing and justice.
His detailed statement comes against a background of growing irritation in unionist circles at the stance being taken by republicans and their threats – explicit or implied – to quit the Executive and attempt to pull down the structures of government.
Before the summer break, Sinn Fein engineered a "mini-crisis" and at the weekend, party TD Caoimhghin O'Caolain told supporters that their ministers could walk away from their posts if things did not go according to plan.
Even allowing for the fact that Sinn Fein may be feeling the pressure of heightened dissident activity and dissent at the grassroots, this intervention was ill-conceived.
In reply, Mr Robinson is absolutely correct to point out (yet again) that the St Andrews agreement contains no pledge from his party to acquiesce in the transfer of responsibilities within a given timeframe.
He is also right to declare that there is no stomach for Sinn Fein to assume the mantle. The recent joint statement from Mr Robinson and Martin McGuinness appeared to point a way ahead to break the deadlock, and a formula could still be found to break the deadlock when the time is right.
While we have come a long way, the violent disturbances on the streets of Belfast and Craigavon yesterday offered a reminder of how far we have to go before this society is "normal" and all sections of the community recognise and respect the forces of law and order, so the control of policing and justice is still a highly sensitive matter.
The Sinn Fein leadership needs to follow Mr Robinson's lead and deliver some clarity to the people as we turn our thoughts towards the autumn and the key decisions that lie ahead. When he spoke out, did Mr O'Caolain accurately reflect party opinion – or was this just more irresponsible sabre-rattling?
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Weather for Belfast
Thursday 24 May 2012
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Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
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