Blasers Are In As Provos Get A Makeover

national | miscellaneous | opinion/analysis Friday September 02, 2005 20:33 by A

It was reported on July that Provisional IRA chiefs are set to send marching combat uniform wearing Provo "colour parties" into history.

It was reported on July that Provisional IRA chiefs are set to send marching combat uniform wearing Provo "colour parties" into history.

For image-conscious Provo bosses have ordered a Trinny and Susannah-style makeover.

As they prepare for their "retired veterans" role, the provisional army council has directed that paramilitary combat-dress, masks and shades be cast off on parade.

"The Boys of the Old Brigade", as they're being nicknamed internally, after a traditional republican ballad, had their first major outing at the annual Wolfe Tone Commemoration, in Bodenstown, Co Kildare.

This year, instead of the black berets, combat fatigues and dark glasses of the past, the advance flag-carrying party wore natty green blazers with a Gaelic motif on the breast pocket, fawn slacks, and regimental-style-striped tie.

Only four of the 10 flag carriers wore shades. And these were the trendy style currently favoured by American troops in Iraq.
"They looked just like Irish-American cops over for the Dublin St Patrick's Day Parade", one west Belfast onlooker confided. Others suggested a striking similarity with the British Legion.

The uniform move is one of several planned changes as the Provos move to what is termed a phased change of role to a "commemorative organisation", of "veterans".
Service medals have already been struck.

In recent weeks, both the British and the 26 County governments have been briefed on developments, pending the major provisional army council (final act of surrender) decommisioning and the PIRA's future (or lack of), expected later this month.

And 26 County Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, is already "on side" with the plan, declaring support last June for "the concept of the PIRA, moving to a commemorative body".

So long boys.