Madam, - So the IRA has picked up the ball and gone home. Officials and spectators with an unambiguous interest in successfully concluding the peace process have grown tired of commissioning yellow cards for bully-boy tactics. Renegades lurking on the wings continue to escape sendings-off. The peace game may not be up yet but we are in stoppage time. The IRA should return with the ball and play to officially recognised rather than provisional rules. - Your, etc.,
MICHAEL CULLEN, Albert Park, Sandycove, Co Dublin.
Madam, - It is interesting to note that the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister now agree that the only obstacle to progress in the North is the activity of the IRA. This was the position of David Trimble for the past number of years yet he was not supported in this analysis by these two gentlemen, who were intent in forcing through an agreement for reasons of political expediency. The net result is that they are now arguing his case in an attempt to get the agreement of the more recalcitrant Dr Paisley.
Experience suggests that, even if movement on this issue is forthcoming, further obstacles will arise and an agreement with Dr Paisley is most unlikely. It would appear that the best chance for a settlement lay in a deal with the Ulster Unionist party and blame for failing to do so can be laid at the doors of Messrs Ahern and Blair for not backing David Trimble at a crucial time. - Yours, etc.,
BRENDAN McMAHON, Elmwood, Naas, Co Kildare.