Published Wednesday, 05 August 2009
The TUV's Jim Allister said it was a sad day for the rule of law.
Jeffrey Donaldson speaking for the DUP said it was clear there had been a political deal of sorts and the CPS needed to answer a few questions.
Gerry Adams said Mr McCauley and Kevin Walsh had served their full sentence and the IRA had apologised over the killing of Garda Jerry McCabe some years ago. He also denied there had been talks with the British government on the issue.
All very predictable but a number of very serious matters do arise.
The row comes as the governments are pressing for the devolution of policing and justice to Stormont as quickly as possible.
Mr Donaldson says devolution will not be possible without the confidence of the unionist community. He said there wasn't much of that about after Wednesday's decision.
But it's August and perhaps the issue will be less contentious next month.
The past and how to deal with it remains a problem.
The Eames Bradley report is likely to be centre stage again in the autumn while the four victims commissioners will expected to show some signs they are making progress.
A senior Unionist said to me: ''The past is the one thing I believe can undo this process''.
Republicans also point out if there is a hierarchy of victims then there will be problems.
On days like this I think they have a point.
The governments will be watching closely.
On days like this.