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Writing Peace: David Trimble Collection

NIO press notice on the Northern Ireland arms decommissioning bill published, 29 November 1996

Friday, 29 November 1996

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The Northern Ireland Office issued a press notice on 29 November 1996, announcing the publication of the Northern Ireland Arms Decommissioning Bill. Sir Patrick Mayhew QC MP emphasized the Bill as a crucial confidence-building measure, aimed at reassuring both those decommissioning their weapons and the general public that arms were being removed from the political landscape. The Bill, which aligns with the recommendations of the International Body on decommissioning chaired by Senator George Mitchell, allows individuals to surrender arms and explosives without facing prosecution for possession. Additionally, the surrendered items would not be used as evidence or subjected to forensic testing, except under specific circumstances. The process would be overseen by an independent commission established through an agreement between the British and Irish Governments. Sir Patrick highlighted the Government's eagerness to enact the legislation promptly to provide the necessary legal immunities and prohibitions to encourage the decommissioning of weaponry.

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