§ David BurnsideTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the International Monitoring Commission has the authority to investigate the allegations of activities by the Provisional IRA and members of Sinn Fein in(a) Colombia and (b) Florida; and what sanctions it has power to recommend. [132895]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyThe Independent Monitoring Commission will decide what matters are relevant to the exercise of its functions, which are set out in the draft International Agreement published on 4 September. However, the Agreement makes clear that the focus of the Commission will be on continuing activity by paramilitary groups.
In line with Article 7 of the draft International Agreement, the Commission's reports shall recommend any remedial action considered necessary. The Commission may also recommend what measures, if any, it considers might appropriately be taken by the Northern Ireland Assembly. Such measures are limited to those which the Northern Ireland Assembly has power to take under relevant United Kingdom legislation.