Blair urged to intervene in priest controversy

Tony Blair is facing demands to investigate claims a top policeman helped shield a Catholic priest accused of being behind one of the IRA’s worst atrocities.

It is claimed Fr John Chesney, who is now dead, confessed to organising the bomb attack in Claudy near Derry in 1972.

Nine people were killed in the IRA triple bombing in Claudy 30 years ago.

A letter from an unidentified English-based priest said Fr Chesney admitted to him that he organised the attacks.

The anonymous priest says he is prepared to reveal himself and co-operate with any investigation.

The letter also alleges that a Senior police officer and a Senior Catholic clergyman helped the priest get a new posting in Co Donegal.

The Catholic Church is challenging the claim.

A Statement for the Diocese of Derry says whoever wrote the letter should come forward immediately.

It said it was disappointing a deceased priest had been maligned and said the Church has consistently and vigorously condemned violence, and has never colluded on violence.

Unionists are calling on the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, to order a probe into the claims.