Republicans and loyalists have been involved in high level talks in a bid to end violence in north Belfast, it emerged today.
Sinn Féin’s Mr Gerry Kelly had a meeting with the Rev Mervyn Gibson, chairman of the Loyalist Commission, a group that includes paramilitary representatives. Sources close to Mr Kelly confirmed the meeting took place in an effort to persuade the loyalist Ulster Defence Association to stop attacking Catholic homes.
Details were disclosed as the security forces prepared for a controversial march on Saturday through the nationalist Ardoyne area.
Residents have objected strongly to the Apprentice Boys march, which takes place at a time when loyalist attacks have been escalating.
A republican source described it as a positive move.
"The meeting lasted for about an hour and a half and they spoke about loyalist violence. It was very frank and the hope is they will meet again. It is a sign that progress is being made."
The Commission, which was set up last year to ease tensions among feuding loyalists, is made up of politicians, church leaders and paramilitary representatives.
Sinn Féin have accused the UDA of attempting to provoke sectarian violence ahead of Saturday's parade, while security sources have accused them of firing shots from the Glenbryn area into nearby nationalist Alliance Avenue.
Catholic homes also came under petrol and pipe bomb attack earlier this week.
Extra police have been drafted in to the area to try to stem the tide of loyalist violence.
PA