Northern Ireland secretary Dr John Reid today formally announced the creation of an independent monitor of violence to "shine a light into the dark corners of Northern Ireland society".
The monitor will bring greater transparency to the pattern of violence in Northern Ireland and the involvement of both loyalists and republican paramilitary organisations in it, Dr Reid said.
The name of the person selected to take up the post will be announced shortly.
Mr Reid rejected claims that a monitor would be irrelevant, adding: "Shining a light into the dark corners of Northern Ireland society, those dark corners that still remain, is in the interests of everyone in Northern Ireland and I certainly hope that it will be widely welcomed that we are taking this step."
The Northern Ireland Secretary, who announced to the House of Commons in July that he was considering such an appointment, said he had consulted widely about how the information would be brought together.
He made the announcement after speaking to Prime Minister Tony Blair at Downing Street earlier.
Dr Reid's announcement was welcomed by the leader of the the Alliance Party which originally proposed the idea.
Party leader Mr David Ford said: 'This is an important step towards introducing greater honesty and integrity back into the peace process and I welcome the Government's acceptance of our Hillsborough proposals.
'By shining a spotlight on to paramilitary activity, an independent monitor will ensure that truth is no longer sacrificed for political expediency.
"Regular public reports will also allow trends to be identified and people to see for themselves what directions the paramilitary groups are taking.'
PA