An independent report has found that the structures of the Provisional IRA remain in place, but in a much reduced form.

A three-member panel has told the British government that the IRA of the Troubles era is well beyond recall, but that command structures including the Army Council still exist in a lesser capacity, and are incapable of terrorist attacks against the British state.

It found that while the IRA is not actively recruiting or procuring new weapons, some arms have been maintained and that some low-level activity continues without the knowledge of the leadership.

It also states that members of the IRA believe their army council oversees both the IRA and Sinn Féin with an overarching strategy. The report's authors say they believe this strategy "has a wholly political focus".

Northern Secretary Theresa Villiers has briefed the House of Commons on the report's findings:

The report is likely to have significant implications on the future of the political process in Northern Ireland, given the deadlock in talks between Republican, Nationalist and Unionist politicians over the future of power-sharing.

The report deals with other paramilitary groups, including the UVF, the UDA, the LVF and the INLA.

It says most INLA leadership figures have "recognised the futility of violence" but that there is co-operation between INLA members and dissident republicans, including in the provision of weapons.