I welcome the announcement today that the INLA has decommissioned its weapons.  I understand that the disarming has been independently verified by a joint facilitation group involving two senior trade unions officials and an academic who worked with the international commission for decommissioning.  Today’s announcement will no doubt evoke painful memories for those who have suffered in any way due to INLA paramilitary activity.  I pay tribute and thank those who have taken risks in order to make the good news of today a reality.   I ask those with influence to do everything that they can to dissuade young people from following the destructive path of violence.  Everyone who wishes for the long-term stability of our society can rejoice at today's news.