Members of the IRA's political wing are expected to call for the disbanding of the mainly-Protestant RUC when they give evidence to the independent body.

Chris Patten heads the commission

The commission, which is headed by former Hong Kong governor Chris Patten, is charged with reforming Northern Ireland's police.

Sinn Fein spokeswoman Bairbre de Brun told BBC News the group was putting forward "very positive suggestions".

The commission needed to understand previous problems with the RUC policing nationalist areas, she said.

The submission by Sinn Fein includes plans for former terrorists joining the force.

Involving "previous combatants" - former paramilitary prisoners - had worked well in other bodies dealing with "conflict resolution", the movement has previously said.

It would not bar any existing members of the RUC from joining any new police force but not so-called "human rights violators".

The commission is predicted to recommend the force at least changes its name.

Sinn Fein also wants to see any police force work more closely with local communities.

There are also issues, such as the increasing problem with drugs in Northern Ireland, which a reformed force must address.

The republican movement itself is reported to be locked in a fierce internal debate about decommissioning weapons.

In a behind the scenes row, which many believe could split the movement, Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams is said to be fighting hardliners to gain enough support for a final decision to start decommissioning.

It is hoped a start could be made with offensive weapons such as its Semtex explosive.

Monday's hearing comes as First Minister David Trimble holds talks with Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon to try to resolve differences about setting up cross-border bodies and executive departments of the new Northern Ireland Assembly.

Sinn Fein wants the RUC to be disbanded

A renewed urgency has been injected into the search for a resolution with a realisation that something needs to be agreed before Mr Trimble and SDLP leader John Hume travel to Oslo to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize next week.

If nothing is achieved by then, the chances of anything being finalised by the end of this year looks unlikely, creating a real crisis for the peace process.

There is also continuing dispute about the size of the executive.

Mr Trimble and his party favour a seven-member "cabinet" which would restrict Sinn Fein to one member.