Ulster Unionist MLA Tom Elliott has called on Sinn Fein to give unequivocal support to law enforcement authorities in Northern Ireland and to publicly disassociate themselves with those who still regard terror as a legitimate vehicle for their aspirations.
Speaking in advance of a Westminster event hosted by Labour MP John McDonnell, Mr Elliott said:
“I am aware that a number of Sinn Fein members are participating in a Westminster event tomorrow (Tuesday 20th November) to ‘discuss the justice issues relating to the imprisonment of the Irish prisoners Gerry McGeough, Marian Price and Martin Corey.’ This event is being organised by Labour MP John McDonnell and has Fianna Fail TD Eamon O’Cuiv and Sinn Fein MP Conor Murphy both listed as guest speakers.
“It is of course ironic that Mr Murphy is speaking at this event in Westminster. I would suggest he would better serve his constituents if he were to take his seat in the House of Commons, participate fully and provide proper representation.
“Many will now be starting to realise the duplicity of Sinn Fein by their pretence of partnership work with the DUP in the Northern Ireland government but in their real world continue to provide support for terrorists.
“It is also disappointing that the Labour MP Mr McDonnell and Fianna Fail TD Eamon O’Cuiv have put themselves in this position, which will give many in the community a perception that they too are supporting terrorists.
“Clearly the range of speakers at the event will not reflect a broad range of views but will instead provide a very narrow focus. It is deeply regrettable that the Mother of Parliaments is being used to host a meeting which will give succour to those who have used terror and who still support the use of terror.”