LEADING nationalist and unionist politicians expressed some puzzlement in Belfast yesterday at the hopeful comments by the Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, in Washington about the prospects of a resumed IRA ceasefire.
The SDLP deputy leader, Mr Seamus Mallon, endorsing comments made by the party leader, Mr John Hume the previous night, said he was unaware of any evidence, to indicate the IRA was contemplating a new ceasefire.
Mr Bruton had based his optimism on progress being made at the talks, particularly between the UUP and the SDLP.
Mr Mallon poured cold water on this positive interpretation of these negotiations. "I have been present at all the bilateral meetings with the UUP, and I can say it is a fanciful interpretation of what the discussions have been about," he said.
The UUP leader, Mr David Trimble, was dubious about Mr Bruton's initial optimism. He said that a "credible ceasefire" was required from the IRA.
Mr Trimble added that he understood Mr Bruton had tempered his Tuesday night comments. "I can understand his desire to be optimistic, but his comments were very wide of the mark three and a half thousand miles wide of the mark."
