Government statement: The Government yesterday sought to highlight the positive findings of the report in relation to the IRA, saying it "reflects the complexity of the transition which is taking place".
While acknowledging the "issues of concern" concerning criminal activity and intelligence-gathering, a Government statement welcomed "the positive findings of the IMC in regard to the continuing transition from paramilitary activity by PIRA".
With the two governments determined to push for a deal to restore power-sharing this year, the Government is anxious to talk down the suggestion that any activity by IRA members is an obstacle to unionist involvement.
The Government statement "notes that the commission are now in a position to take 'the firm view that the present PIRA leadership has taken the strategic decision to end the armed campaign and pursue the political course which it has publicly articulated'.
"The absence of evidence of PIRA paramilitary activity since last July, including authorised attacks, recruitment, training, targeting and involvement in rioting, is of particular note."
It said the issues concerning criminal activity and intelligence-gathering "must be addressed in maintaining and building on the progress which has undeniably been made".
It says the report paints a disturbing picture in relation to the activities of loyalist paramilitaries and dissident republicans.
The Government also welcomed a report from the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning which reported continuing engagement between the commission and loyalist paramilitaries.
"With the publication of these reports the governments now look forward to the talks involving all the parties which will begin on February 6th with the aim of setting out the arrangements and timetable for the restoration as soon as practicable of the devolved institutions under the Good Friday agreement."