UK and Ireland Urged to Negotiate Directly With Paramilitaries on Disbandment

A report published 13 October 2026 recommends the British and Irish governments negotiate directly with loyalist and republican groups to secure disbandment. Commissioned by both governments and written by Fleur Ravensbergen, it found sufficient support after a year-long confidential exercise. London said it would consider the findings with Dublin. Whether talks can advance without conferring legitimacy remains the test.