Sinn Féin Gives A Qualified Yes To St. Andrews Agreement

U.S. Government Allows Adams To Visit The U.S.A On Friday

Emerging from the meeting, Mr Adams said, "Today's meeting has mandated the party leadership to follow the course set out at St. Andrews and we intend to do this in a very positive way. Our focus is on delivering the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and to bring about the restoration of the power-sharing and all-Ireland political institutions as quickly as possible."

The party did not approve calling a special Ard Fheis to discuss policing in the North however - a not-entirely unexpected development, but one that concerns the governments of both Ireland and Britain who are pushing for progress towards full recognition of the authority of the PSNI and the rule of law.

Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald, who headed up the consultation panel set up by the Ard Chomhairle, said: "The resolution of the issue of policing and justice is a matter for the two governments and all the political parties. Issues, which need resolved include agreement on the model and timeframe for transfer.

"Sinn Féin is committed to bring an end to decades of repressive and sectarian policing. All elements in policing need to be accountable. Sinn Féin rejects any role in Ireland or in civic policing for MI5.

"Justice and the fair and impartial rule of law are essential elements of a society at peace with itself. We want to see democratically accountable civic policing and we will continue to work until we achieve this. Gerry Adams will propose to the Ard Chomhairle that we convene a special Ard Fheis as soon as these matters are resolved."

Adams Granted Visa For U.S. Trip

Mr Adams was also granted a visa to visit the United States on Monday evening after the U.S. government decided not to extend last year's ban on fundraising.

As a result, the Sinn Féin leader will fly to New York on Friday for a $500-a-head dinner in Manhattan hosted by the most successful of the republican fundraising groups in the U.S. - Friends of Sinn Féin.

The decision was taken by the State Department at the recommendation of President Bush's Northern Ireland envoy, Mitchell Reiss, though President Bush himself has so far declined to comment on the change of policy