Loyalist groups 'denounce criminality' and support new loyalist community council

Northern Ireland's three biggest loyalist paramilitary groups have denounced criminality and given their support for an initiative aimed at re-engaging them with the peace process.

The Ulster Defence Association (UDA), the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) and the Red Hand Commando pledged to make a meaningful contribution to improving their communities.

Their announcement followed the launch of a new loyalist community council on Tuesday.

It was timed to coincide with the 21st anniversary of the loyalist ceasefire in October 1994.

BBC News NI's Home Affairs Correspondent Vincent Kearney reports.