Two SF members expelled over Robert McCartney murder

Sinn Féin sources have revealed that two members of the party have been expelled in connection with the murder of Belfast man Robert McCartney.

Mr McCartney, a 33-year-old father-of-two, was beaten and stabbed to death outside a pub in the city on January 30, allegedly by senior IRA members.

The killing led to a backlash against Sinn Féin, and party president Gerry Adams subsequently ordered any members with information to come forward and make full and frank statements.

At least 12 Sinn Féin members were suspended in the wake of the murder and sources have revealed that two of them have now been expelled for failing to comply with Mr Adams’ demand.

Four other members have resigned in protest at the situation, while another has publicly accused the party of treating him unfairly.