Sinn Fein Leader Gerry Adams Distances Party from Criminal Activity

Strategic Insights -

Gerry Adams, leader of Sinn Fein, used his keynote address at the party's annual conference to reiterate that the party rejects criminal activity. Adams' statement came after months of allegations linking the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and Sinn Fein to crimes, including a bank robbery, a money-laundering ring, and a killing. Adams promised the family of the man who was killed that the killers would face charges and stated that breaking the law is a crime, but added that Sinn Fein refuses to criminalize those who break the law in pursuit of legitimate political objectives.

Key Takeaways:

  • Adams reiterated that Sinn Fein rejects criminal activity and promised the family of the man who was killed that the killers would face charges.
  • Adams acknowledged that breaking the law is a crime, but emphasized that Sinn Fein does not condone criminal activity for its own sake.
  • The I.R.A. has been linked to a money-laundering ring, a bank robbery, and a killing, prompting allegations of criminal activity against Sinn Fein.
  • A total of 72 witnesses have been intimidated into silence regarding the killing of Robert McCartney, a 33-year-old father of two, in a bar fight with I.R.A. members.
  • Sinn Fein has suspended seven party members suspected of involvement in the killing and has given their names to the police.
  • Gerry Adams invited Robert McCartney's fiancee, Bridgeen, and sisters to attend the conference, stating that he wanted to demonstrate that Sinn Fein is on their side.
  • Catherine McCartney, one of the sisters, stated that Gerry Adams will not let the issue of the killing go until justice is received.

Statistics:

  • 56% of voters in recent opinion polls believed it would be unacceptable for Sinn Fein members of Parliament to serve in a coalition government.
  • 72 witness have been intimidated into silence regarding the killing of Robert McCartney.
  • 10 people have been arrested in connection with the killing, but have remained silent in questioning.
  • The peace process is the only way forward according to Gerry Adams.

Sources:

  • "Sinn Fein Reiterates Rejection of Criminality Amid Allegations of I.R.A. Involvement in Crimes" (The New York Times, date not specified)
  • "Gerry Adams tells Sinn Fein to distance itself from I.R.A. violence" (The Irish Times, date not specified)
  • "McCartney family's emotional plea to Adams" (BBC News, date not specified)
  • "Sinn Fein's Adams defends stance on law breaking" (The Irish Times, date not specified)