The "Real IRA", the group that carried out the Omagh bombing with the loss of 29 lives, has called a "complete cessation" to its campaign of violence.
A statement issued to RTE last night said that as a result of intense consultation over recent weeks and in accordance with the constitution of the organisation, its "volunteers" had determined a complete cessation of all military activity to take place from midnight last night.
It is understood, that members of the "Real IRA" met in convention to decide on this course of action. This leaves only one paramilitary organisation still active. In a telephone call to The Irish Times yesterday, the Continuity IRA indicated it would not be declaring a ceasefire.
The "Real IRA" statement received a restrained welcome from the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, who described it as an important and positive development provided it was put into effect.
It is understood that while the Taoiseach's office had no direct communication with the "Real IRA", contacts had been operating between his Department and the organisation even before the Omagh bombing.
Senior sources were aware last evening that a statement of cessation might be imminent but no formal comments were made until the "Real IRA" statement was confirmed through intermediaries early today.
In spite of the "Real IRA" statement the Taoiseach warned that the Government intended to pursue those responsible for the Omagh atrocity and bring them to justice. It is also believed that the gardai are satisfied with the bona fides of those issuing the statement.
In his statement issued early today, the Taoiseach said: "I note the statement from the organisation calling itself `Oglaigh na hEireann' and otherwise known as `the Real IRA' declaring a complete cessation.
"On the basis that this statement is now put fully into effect and is final, it would represent both an important and a positive development.
"It will not unfortunately bring the dead of Omagh back to life, heal the injured or comfort their families. It will therefore not affect the unrelenting determination of the two governments to pursue the perpetrators of this and other crimes, and bring them to justice.
"It is now essential that any remaining organisation not yet on ceasefire clarifies its position as a matter of urgency. The Government are determined to achieve from now a complete and permanent end to all paramilitary violence on this island, using as necessary both the existing and recently passed legislation. We want to create the best possible climate for the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement that was massively endorsed by the people of Ireland."
The President, Mrs McAleese, speaking in Sydney, welcomed the cessation announcement. There had never been a problem in Ireland which justified the shedding of blood, she said.
The statement from the "Real IRA" had been expected since the Omagh bombing. But it is believed division within the group had held up an announcement. Since its inception late last year, the "Real IRA" has been responsible for several car bomb attacks on towns in Northern Ireland.