McCartneys dismiss SF claims of political manipulation

The family of murdered Belfast man Robert McCartney has dismissed Sinn Féin claims that they are being manipulated by anti-republican elements.

Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness has warned the dead man's sisters and partner that they are leaving themselves open to such manipulation by canvassing political support for their campaign for justice.

However, Catherine McCartney responded this morning by saying she understood the situation.

"We have to be very careful that we're not being used by anybody and that includes Sinn Féin and all political parties," she said.

"We're not stupid women. We get the impression that someone thinks out there that somebody's behind this, pulling our strings.

"The only person behind this is our Robert and he is the person pulling our strings."