IF EVER there was an olive branch, it has to be Prime Minister John Major's announcement today that he is not going to allow decommissioning of arms to stand in the way of peace talks in Northern Ireland.

Writing in the Dublin-based Irish Times, he makes it clear that decommissioning will need to be addressed at the beginning of the talks.

But he also insists he is not prepared to allow Sinn Fein to take part in discussions unless the IRA declares a ceasefire.

The move is designed to smooth the way for all parties, while at the same time giving nothing away to any.

On the one hand, Mr Major has not demanded actual decommissioning, while on the other he has failed to meet Unionist pressure for the decommissioning issue to be settled before talks can begin.

While on the face of it, the moves appear non-confrontational, the underlying message is crystal clear - this has to be the IRA's last chance.

Having spoiled the bridge-building over the 12 month ceasefire with yet more bomb outrages, this murderous mob is being offered yet another chance.

The world is watching - in particular the United States which has recently begun to show signs of patience wearing thin.

Mr Major's move is one of great significance.

It is a carefully honed attempt to draw all parties back round the table without tipping the so far achieved fragile balance in any direction.

He has left Sinn Fein-IRA between the proverbial rock and hard place.

There is only one place the organisation can go if it hopes to retain any shred of credibility.

To turn down this offer would be an open admission that it does not and never did want peace.

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