Following a two-year period of intense discussion and debate within the republican socialist movement, the INLA declared a ceasefire on the basis of the political analysis presented to it by the IRSP.

We endorse the decision taken by the republican socialist movement. We accept that although the Good Friday agreement is flawed and needs to be opposed politically, the Irish people have overwhelmingly expressed their desire for peace.

As revolutionaries we are compelled to recognise the desire of the people. We ask other republicans to reflect on this recently expressed wish of the Irish people for peace and call upon them to act responsibly.

Over the years, our movement has made mistakes in pursuit of a legitimate struggle to liberate Ireland. The INLA prisoners themselves wish to take this opportunity to sincerely apologise for the hurt and suffering caused to anyone as a consequence of our mistakes in the prosecution of our struggle.

We salute the sacrifice of our departed comrades and acknowledge the courage, loyalty and commitment of our volunteers both past and present.

We also pay tribute to the dedication shown by our families, supporters and fellow prisoners of war throughout the duration of this conflict.

However, that phase of the struggle has now ended. The political climate has changed. The War is Over. It is now time to allow the working class people of Ireland the opportunity to advance their demands and needs in a peaceful environment. We encourage the IRSP to campaign on behalf of the working class, poor and marginalised sections of our nation.

For our part, we remain committed to the revolutionary socialist ideals of our movement and we look forward to a peaceful and truly democratic future for the people of our country.