THERE was no alternative to the suspension of devolved government in Northern Ireland.

The power-sharing executive was about to fall apart amid a welter of recriminations.

Without even the pretence of harmony between the political parties, the decision to revert to direct rule from Westminster was prudent.

Despite the overwhelming support for the Good Friday Agreement by the people of Northern Ireland, it is a matter of regret that the political debate in the province still surrounds the principles of the peace process.

We are told by the British Government that there is no Plan B for Northern Ireland. There is the Good Friday Agreement and nothing else.

No viable alternative has come from any of the parties in Ulster.

The suspension of the Northern Ireland assembly and executive provides a breathing space for the politicians.

A breathing space for them to reflect on the relative peace and security the terrorist ceasefire has brought to all communities of Northern Ireland.

Deep-rooted suspicions remain central to the politics of Northern Ireland. And they remain the stumbling block to constructing a lasting settlement.

There is an urgent need for the signatories to the Good Friday Agreement to put that accord ahead of their own self-interests. That is the only way suspicion will be eroded.

Sinn Fein should re-start that process of reconciliation by heeding the advice of Tony Blair, and get from the IRA an assurance that the republican movement has unequivocally renounced violence in favour of the democratic process.

No time for delay

BY anyone's calculations, a 9-1 vote in favour of industrial action is overwhelming. No one can doubt the determination of members of the Fire Brigades Union to seek a better pay deal.

We appear to be on course for a damaging series of strikes, which will put lives and property at risk.

Such a turn of events must be avoided.

The employers (local authorities) are undertaking a review of pay and conditions for firefighters, with the intention of drawing comparisons with other public sector professionals.

Surely it will be possible to conclude that review within the next few days, in the hope that it will prove to be the catalyst for the early resolution of this dispute.