I HAVE never had much sympathy for the IRA, but their latest antics prove that they are not fit for government.

First, they attempt to smuggle guns in a way that is certain to be detected. Then, they murder a taxi driver and practically leave a notice on him admitting it.

Then, to cap it all, they banish youths from Ireland without explanation. Such behaviour beggars belief.

For the first time they have a Northern Ireland Secretary from a party that has no connection with the Orange Order or the Unionist Parties and they treat all her efforts to behave fairly with contempt.

L LAWES, Bold Street, Blackburn.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.