The IRA has rejected the UK Government's latest proposals for progress in the Ulster peace process.

The BBC's Ireland Correspondent Denis Murray discusses the statement (1'40")

Its statement was issued in Belfast as the latest victim of the current cycle of violence was shot dead in the city.

It said: "The leadership of Oglaigh na hEireann do not regard the 'propositions on Heads of Agreement' document as a basis for a lasting peace settlement. It is a pro-Unionist document and has created a crisis in the peace crisis.

"We have pointed out repeatedly in the past that meaningful negotiations are crucial to the resolution of the conflict. We have affirmed our willingness to facilitate such negotiations.

"We have matched this commitment with deeds in announcing and maintaining a cessation of military operations since July 20 last year.

Tony Blair 'succumbed to Orange Card'

"The British Government have, as yet, refused to face up to their responsibilities in this regard. They have continued with the remilitarisation policy of their predecessors in government. They have stalled on the implementation of any serious or meaningful confidence building measures.

"Most significantly of all, in attempting to impose the `Heads of Agreement' document on the talks process, yet another British Prime Minister has succumbed to the Orange Card.

"This was against a background of the Unionist leadership refusing to meaningfully engage in the talks process and the continuing assassinations by loyalist death squads.

"Instead of facing up to this pressure the British Government has again yielded to it. The responsibility for undoing the damage done to the prospects for a just and lasting peace settlement rests squarely with the British Government."

Second rejection in week

The document was rejected at the weekend by Sinn Fein chief negotiator Martin McGuinness.

The IRA move will come as little surprise to those involved in the peace talks.

But the decision to add its voice to the rejection reinforces the republican upset and again calls into question the IRA ceasefire.

Denis Murray

The BBC's Ireland Correspondent Denis Murray says the statement has been released to make clear the IRA's position on the document.

He says the IRA wants to be heard in advance of the peace talks moving from Belfast to London next week.

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