Report calls for focus on law enforcement and tackling roots of paramilitarism

(l to r) Tim O’Connor, Monica McWilliams, John McBurney and Mitchell Reiss described ‘shifting dynamics’ within both republican and loyalist paramilitary groups (Michael McHugh/PA) - (PA Archive)

A “twin track” process of law enforcement and tackling the roots of paramilitarism is needed in Northern Ireland, as well as a “group transition” process for them to leave the stage, a report has said.

The Independent Reporting Commission (IRC) has reiterated its call to the UK and Irish governments to appoint an independent person to scope out what a formal process of engagement and group transition might look like.