SF suspensions 'belated step', says McCartney family
The suspension of seven Sinn Féin members linked to the murder of Robert McCartney was a belated step forward, his family said today.
However they suggested the passing on of information about the murder through solicitors to Northern Ireland’s Police Ombudsman Nuala O’Loan was inadequate in their quest to have his killers brought to justice.
In their full statement in response to Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams’ announcement of the suspensions, the family said: “The statement by Gerry Adams is viewed by this family as a positive step forward.
“We welcome and accept Gerry Adams’ personal comments that he will not rest until this family receives justice.
“The basic action taken by Sinn Féin in relation to their members involved in Robert’s murder is nothing more than what would have been expected from any democratically-elected party.
“Although we would have liked this to have happened earlier as those names have been known to Sinn Féin officials from the outset.
“The handing over of the names to the Police Ombudsman through a solicitor is of symbolic significance.
“Providing a solicitor with a statement to be passed on to the Ombudsman is an inadequate method of gathering evidence.
“The repeated appeals for those to come forward and tell what they know has to date had little effect on the ground.
“Robert’s life was taken from him as if it was of no value. It is only when those involved are convicted will the value of life be restored.
“It is only when this happens that this family will accept that all that can be done has been done.”
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