The "Bank Robbery" that was supposed to be the work of the I.R.A. was really set up by the British Establishment to achieve a number of objectives. Because of "Bootlegging and Gangsterism", Revenue from Diesel fuel,Tobacco, CD's/DVD's etc. was practically non-existent all along the border. Over time, millions of pounds of unlaundered money would be slowly filtered back into the economy making the gangsters and Paramilitaries extremely wealthy (and that wealth could buy control over individuals and communities)so, to counter such a scenario, what's the best way to stop the money being laundered? WIPE OUT THE WHOLE CURRENCY.
When the Southern Government embraced the Euro, all those who had their little "Nest-Eggs" hidden away (The "Under-the-Bed" money), had to take their old PUNT currency to the bank and declare it to the authorities (if it amounted to any more than £1000.00 worth) Tax would be levied on it. The Irish Revenue eventually got their share of all previously undeclared money and if the "defaulters" could'nt prove the legality of substantial sums of money they could'nt change it. In other words, the money accrued from their "labours" was now, no good to anyone. What financial institution would discontinue its entire currency issue because it was robbed of £25 million (most of which would probably be destroyed by the robbers as "too hot to handle" anyway)? In a financial climate such as ours, where a single lottery win can amount to £20 million, does such a drastic solution to this robbery not smack of "Overkill"?
Politically, the Wreckers and Detracters of the Good Friday agreement have , at a stroke, been placated. Blame the I.R.A. and it follows, Sinn Fein will become marginalised. Any dealings with them can be put on the back boiler until the next General Election or beyond when, due to poor health or a more favourable result at the polls, Paisley wont have the "Clout" that he weilds at the present. One Policeman has effectively consigned the whole Peace Process to the bin. No Proof and No evidence! but thats the way its always been here in "Liddle ole Norn Irelan"