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Disaffected Republicans Quit IRA
According to Irish newspaper the Sunday Tribune, the South Derry brigade of the IRA (comprising around 25 members) are to split away from the provisionals because they are "disillusioned" that Sinn Fein are "wanting to sign up" to support of the PSNI (hat tip Fair Deal). The last time there was a serious split in the IRA Northern Ireland witnessed the birth of the Real IRA and, together with the rest of the world, witnessed one of the worst atrocities of the troubles - the Omagh bomb.
The group is said to include members in their 20s who joined the IRA post-ceasefire. If nothing else this demonstrates exactly why Unionists are right to call on the IRA to disband completely, and the fact that these men reportedly have access to weapons would seem to retrospectively justify the big deal that was being made over decommissioning. It's also strengthening the view, in my mind, that one of the biggest dangers facing Northern Ireland in the future will be youngsters radicalised by Sinn Fein and the DUP but who haven't had to live through the worst of the shit this country's had to endure during the 'troubles'.
Follow up:
What it also demonstrates is that the insatiable appetite for conquest within the Republican movement. This is not about oppression or "Irish freedom" for who in Northern Ireland today can really claim to be oppressed or unfree? This is about domination - a chance for malcontent thugs to impose their will on the rest of the country (nothing new in Londonderry). The fact that their main objection seems to be Sinn Fein contemplating support for the police is evidence, were it needed, that these men are criminals and not freedom fighters. Imagine a political party that wants to get into government even contemplating support for the forces of law and order; the pigs that have the sheer audacity to try and prevent illegal fuel smuggling and other wholesome activities that allow these men to continue living the lavish lifestyle to which they've become so accustomed.
I'd urge Sinn Fein to cut their losses in trying to bring those members with them who have clearly expressed a preference for war over peace. There is no point trying - if Sinn Fein really want peace and equality then these men are a ball and chain around their ankles. Ditch them, sign up to the policing board, and tell to the police everything you know about their activities. I'm sure this won't happen, though if nothing else it might be a good way to blindside the unionist politicians - I guarantee none of them are expecting it either.