Dissident group announces 'immediate' ceasefire

QRadio News

Oglaigh Na hEireann has announced a ceasefire on it's armed campaign against the British State with immediate effect. 

The Dissident republican group issued a statement to the Irish News last night after working with a number of trade Union groups. 

The organisation, made up largely of former IRA members, has been responsible for a number of bombings and shootings.

It's been responsible for for a number of high-profile incidents, including the attempted murder of Catholic police officer Peadar Heffron near Randalstown in 2010.

According to today's paper the Oglaigh Na hEireann statement said: "at this time the environment is not right for armed conflict".

"Therefore the leadership are announcing that with immediate effect we will suspend all armed actions against the British state."

Sources close to the party told Irish News Security correspondent, Allison Morris, that there were no discussions with the UK Government over the decision. 

The organisation had worked with a number of trade union organisations which are due to make a statement later. 

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said "I welcome the announcement of the end to this violent campaign. I especially want to thank those trade unionists and community leaders who were involved in securing this outcome."

Mr.Adams said there could be no excuse or justification for the continued existence and operation of armed groups. 

"There is a peaceful and democratic way forward to resolve political differences and to work towards an agreed and united Ireland" he said. 

"Meaningful change will only be advanced through commitment to political and democratic programmes & full participation in the peace process."

"I call on all groups engaged in violent actions to desist, disband and to embrace the path of peaceful politics."