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The following is a statement from Willie Gallagher, IRSP prisons spokesperson:
"A delegation from the Irish Republican Socialist Party held a two hour meeting with INLA prisoners representatives in Long Kesh today. "The meeting, which was held on the ramifications for the republican struggle of the latest IRA cease-fire was frank, informative and constructive. "The INLA prisoners concurred with the IRSP's critical analysis of the current 'pacification' process. They stated that the decision by the IRA leadership to end their campaign was purely a matter for themselves (the IRA), it does not and should not impact upon the continuation of the struggle by republican socialists. "The prisoners reiterated their position that while British troops remain on our streets and their Government refuses to enter into dialogue concerning the eventual ending of British rule, then the struggle must and will go on. "The INLA prisoners were critical of the Sinn Fein leaders stated aim of 're-negotiating the Union with Britain' as a de-facto recognition and acceptance of partition. "The prisoners encouraged the IRSP to continue seeking a genuine and meaningful political process which will ultimately bring about British withdrawal and self-determination for the Irish people. However they firmly stated that they would not allow themselves to be used as political pawns or have their freedom bartered for in any proposed negotiations or deals." |