This would give the impression that they were reacting to persuasion outside the British and Irish political ring. If no arms are handed in and if the Unionist leader, David Trimble was forced for political and PR image reason to shake hands with Gerry Adams, a much sought after but much shunned action, he could lose more support within his own party where an increasing number of Unionists are demanding some move towards disarmament. The irony of it all is that in the past, bombs were the wedge that drove the two party leaders apart. Today, they drive the parties together, albeit with some reluctance. It now means that one threshold has been passed.
Future violence plays into the hands of the peace momentum rather than disrupting it.
History may well show that the dreadful bombing in Omagh was indeed the turning point - the last grim spectre of violence. The knee cappings and punishment shootings will go on both sides until local communities condemn it. But violence as we know it may well have finally hung its guns up.