Republican Youth welcome historic decision by ETA

International officer for Sinn Féin Republican Youth Aodhan Hamill today welcomed the announcement by the Basque independence movement ETA to fully decommission their weapons.

Speaking from Belfast today, Aodhan said:

"Republican Youth would like to extend our solidarity and best wishes to our Basque comrades, following the announcement that ETA is to complete the process of putting its arms beyond use.

"This decision is a historic one, which creates another opportunity for peace that must not be squandered.

"ETA & the Basque independence movement have taken unprecedented steps to advance the peace process, a position endorsed continuously by the Basque people. These steps must be reciprocated.

"We call on the both the Spanish and French governments to engage in a meaningful dialogue with all Basque parties and address the outstanding, fundamental issue of prisoners. 

"The cruel policy of dispersal practiced by both governments must be ended, and Basque political prisoners released immediately.

"Jo ta ke irabazi arte!"