Plastic bullets are key issue for Sinn Fein in negotiations

The BBC understands that the government hopes to have a replacement for plastic bullets for riot control before the end of this year.

The use of plastic bullets is one of a number of key issues that Sinn Fein has highlighted during its continuing talks with the UK government.

Seventeen people were killed by plastic and rubber bullets during the Troubles.

It seems that the government is ready to move on the issue if a less dangerous alternative can be found, and two possible alternatives are currently being considered.

My fears are that if there is another death as a result of a plastic bullet, it could damage the peace process Clara Reilly Campaign Against Plastic Bullets

The Democratic Unionist Party's Gregory Campbell insisted the safety of the security forces could not be compromised.

"If Sinn Fein or anyone else are going to argue for a low-key weapon that is really ineffective in the face of a mob, that's not something most law-abiding people would want to see," he said.

"They would want to see an effective weapon with strict controls over its use in order that innocent people - both security services and civilians alike - can be protected from mobs throwing petrol bombs and stones."

However, Clara Reilly from the Campaign Against Plastic Bullets said plastic bullets should be phased out as soon as possible.

"My main concern is that we are coming into the marching season, when plastic bullets are being used a lot.

"My fears are that if there is another death as a result of a plastic bullet, it could damage the peace process."

Pressure

The SDLP's Alex Attwood said the use of plastic bullets had fallen since his party joined the Policing Board.

He said pressure applied by the SDLP at Policing Board meetings to speed up research to find an alternative had been important.

Sinn Fein's Mitchel McLaughlin said they wanted a ban on "this lethal weapon".

"We want this immediately - it is obviously a political issue for our community."

In its ongoing negotiations with the British Government, Sinn Fein wants improved Catholic representation within the police service and moves to restrict the future role of the PSNI Special Branch.

Progress is also being reported on these issues - but not on the critical matter of precisely when policing and justice powers will be transferred to local politicians.

A clear timetable for this is seen as key to Sinn Fein endorsing the new policing arrangements.