Ferris claim - Government showdown with SF looms

YESTERDAY’S naming of Deputy Martin Ferris as a member of the IRA’s Army Council represents a bombshell twist in the Government’s ongoing assault on Sinn Féin links with paramilitarism and criminality.

It was an unprecedented development as Tánaiste Mary Harney said she believed the North Kerry TD to be among “Oireachtas members” on the council, the high command of one of the world’s most ruthless terrorist organisations.

Not surprisingly, Mr Ferris restated his denial of the allegation as despicable and accused the PDs of trying to damage Sinn Féin electorally.

There seems no upper limit to the insulting and damaging charges levelled at Sinn Féin by the PDs.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell has long waged a one-man campaign against them.

Sinn Féin leaders stand accused of knowing in advance about the €32 million Northern Bank raid, blamed on the IRA.

They also stand condemned, and rightly so, for refusing to admit the murder of Belfast woman Jean McConville was a crime. No warped doctrine can excuse that heinous crime.

A showdown is looming when the Government and Sinn Féin meet tomorrow.