The following is the text of the IRA's statement on the arms issue, received by An Phoblacht on Wednesday night:
"On 8 March 2001 the IRA leadership re-established contact with the IICD, the Independent International Commission on Disarmament. 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."