The IRA's apology to the civilian victims of its campaign of violence has been welcomed by the main church leaders in Northern Ireland.

In a statement on Tuesday, the IRA apologised and offered its condolences to families of all the civilians who died as a result of its campaign of violence.

The Church of Ireland Primate said he believed the statement was a "positive step in terms of IRA thinking".

"Every step no matter how faltering or restricted towards a recognition of the evils and hurt of the past must be welcomed," said Archbishop Robin Eames on Wednesday.

Archbishop Robin Eames welcomed statement

"I'm looking at this on the broad sweep on this community moving forward but what we now need, as in so many cases in Northern Ireland, is deeds, not words."

Catholic Bishop of Down and Connor Patrick Walsh described the statement as "very encouraging".

"While it is very understandable that for some this statement does not go far enough.

"Nevertheless, it should be welcomed as a very significant further step in meeting the challenges and difficulties, as the statement acknowledges, of the peace process," said Bishop Walsh.

'Helpful'

The President of the Methodist Church, the Reverend Winston Graham, said it was helpful to note the words of apology and condolence to the relatives of those who died by violent means on Bloody Friday.

"As others in the past have already shown, it is only when we acknowledge pain and hurt caused to each other that we are enabled to find the freedom needed to move forward," he said.

Presbyterian Moderator Dr Russell Birney said the IRA apology was a positive gesture "in as far as it goes".

"However, it is just one of many steps that will have to be taken along the road of reconciliation towards the peaceful, tolerant and just society for which we yearn."