2003 was a year of paralysis, punctuated by two flurries of activity. Despite high hopes, both came to nothing, typifying the continuing distrust over republican intentions. Unionists wanted an end to the IRA, or "acts of completion" in the political jargon, before it would return to powers-sharing.

In an unprecedented move, the IRA published its draft statement which had been part of the planned political choreography. The IRA was "resolved to see the complete and final closure of this conflict", said its statement; it was "determined to ensure that activities, disciplines and strategies will be consistent with this". Gerry Adams declared the IRA had "completely peaceful intent".

Behind the scenes, that statement did appear to help. There was a thawing between the republican and unionist leadership – and by the autumn both leaderships were willing to do a deal.

On 21 October arms chief John de Chastelain announced he had witnessed a third act of weapons destruction - the largest so far. Yet when he refused to go into detail, because of a confidentiality arrangement with the IRA, this became the stumbling block.

David Trimble said he had been misled and could no more trust republicans than before. Amid angry recriminations, London pressed ahead with November elections to an assembly that would not sit.

Despite his hardline stance, David Trimble was the loser: Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionists and Sinn Fein emerged as the largest parties - with little appetite to talk.