THE British Prime Minister has dismissed as "absurd" the claim by the Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, that the peace process in Northern Ireland was in ruins.
In a statement, Mr Major said. "This has been a very difficult week for Northern Ireland. I utterly condemn the violence from both sides over the last few days. We must all now work to resolve this issue of parades for the future to prevent repetition of the terrible scenes we have witnessed.
"But it is absurd to suggest that the peace process is in ruins unless there are those who wish to ruin it. The events of the last few days only reinforce the need for democratic politicians to continue to meet and to seek solutions to these long standing disputes.
"The talks will continue with those who are qualified to attend them.
"Sinn Fein have excluded themselves until there is clear and compelling evidence of a ceasefire that will last and is not just a temporary stratagem."