Of course the IRA are right wing . . always have been, in so far as they fit into the conventional political spectrum. Look at the reactionary, conservative, religious constitution they provided for Eire, which it took (seemingly) for ever for that poor, afflicted nation to start to shake off.

The "affinity" so many left wing groups claim for the IRA is simply one of life's little mysteries . . although at times it's indicative of the limited intellegence of the more off-the-field left wing groups.

In terms of their "control of their own people" and tollerance of those of differing persuations there's half of bugger all to choose between the IRA and the militant Unionists!

(Actually, I'm not sure of any simple way of distinguishing Mao from a right wing totalitarian . . )

Cheers!

George