McGuinness admits IRA members’ role in murder

MARTIN McGUINNESS last night became the first senior Sinn Féin figure to publicly admit that IRA members were involved in the murder of Robert McCartney in Belfast.

In the opening address of his party's Árd Fheis in Dublin, Mr McGuinness said he was "outraged and saddened at the involvement of a small number of IRA volunteers in the brutal killing". Sinn Féin's chief negotiator also went further than previous party statements when he urged those involved to admit their roles and significantly "make themselves accountable in court".

The strong emphasis by such a senior Sinn Féin figure on the implications of the murder followed the previous night's statement from Gerry Adams that he had suspended seven Sinn Féin members allegedly involved in the fatal stabbing on January 30.

The address set the tone for an event which was expected to celebrate the party's centenary but which will instead be dominated by the deep political repercussions, of the involvement of SF members, and the IRA, in the murder.

The Mid-Ulster MP conceded that much in his address."

Painful as it is, we as republicans have to face the reality that there is a crisis of confidence that could destroy the Good Friday Agreement," he told delegates in the RDS.

Last night's address, allied to the decision by Mr Adams, signalled that the party may be on the verge of a major concession.

If it is to come, it will be during the course of Mr Adams's presidential address this afternoon. It will be certain to refer to the murder of Mr McCartney and will be closely scrutinised to see if Sinn Féin will accede to demands made by the Government in relation to criminality and continuing paramilitary activities.

Later in his address, Mr McGuinness gave what might be construed as a hint when referring to his party's determination to find a way to "prevent criminality".

Earlier, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said Sinn Féin knew the crucial questions the Government wanted the party to answer.

In marked contrast, his colleague, Justice Minister Michael McDowell, spelled out what the Government required this weekend. He said the Árd Fheis would be a "moment of truth" for the Provisional movement to see if it was willing to make a sea change.

Meanwhile, the sisters of Robert McCartney confirmed yesterday that they were likely to be invited by US President George Bush to attend the White House St Patrick's Day ceremony.

Police ombudsman Nuala O'Loan said statements taken through her office would be admissible in any criminal proceedings.

It came as the PSNI said the ten people questioned so far about the murder had all exercised their right to remain silent.