Border device deeply sinister

3.12.00pm GMT Tue 8th Sep 2009

Alliance Leader David Ford has condemned those behind a 600lb device which was defused today near the border in Forkhill, Co.Armagh.

David Ford said: "This is a deeply sinister development. A device of this magnitude could have caused untold carnage.

"Those who seek to destroy the progress in Northern Ireland must never prevail. Finds like this underline the need for politicians to work together and show that peace and devolution is the only way forward.

"Vigilance in the community must be matched with responsibility and co-operation in government. There can be no complacency in tackling terrorism and that means that a strong and united stance must be maintained by politicians here. Anyone with information on terrorists must do the right thing and contact police immediately."