Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kennedy has labelled as a “disgrace” the fact that Sean Hughes, who was arrested last week in relation to the murder of Robert McCartney, and subsequently charged with IRA membership, should be released on bail and play a leading role at an IRA commemoration that same day in south Armagh.
Mr Kennedy said:
“Mr Hughes' attendance at an event glorifying terrorism only hours after being released by a Court in Belfast was an absolute disgrace. Not only is it a grave insult to the family and friends of Robert McCartney, it severely undermines confidence in the judicial process.
"What are the public to make of a man investigated in relation to an IRA murder cover up being bailed to attend an event to commemorate two IRA men who blew themselves up with their own bomb? Publicity surrounding the event brazenly boasted of both men’s involvement on attacks on British soldiers and advertised Sean Hughes as a speaker.
"I understand he has been charged with IRA membership. That being the case, why has he not been at the very least prohibited from attending IRA related events? A full investigation must now take place of what information surrounding the event in South Armagh was placed before the Court when deciding bail in this case."