Ulster Defence Association

The Ulster Defence Association (UDA) is a Loyalist terrorist group which is by its supporters as 'defending' the 'unionist[?] community' from Irish nationalism. It is accused by opponents of racketeering and of involvement in the drugs trade in Northern Ireland.

They have been involved in a feud. On February 22, 2003 it announced a 'complete and utter cessation' of all acts of violence for one year. It said it will review its ceasefire every three months. It also apologised for the involvement of some of its members in the drugs trade.

Its 'ceasefire' was welcomed by the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Paul Murphy[?] and the Chief Constable[?] of the Police Service of Northern Ireland[?], Hugh Orde[?]. Some republicans, however, were sceptical, claiming that the UDA had a history of 'telling lies' and that its word could not be trusted.

The UDA uses a number of cover names when carrying out killings, notably the Red Hand Defenders