Bobby Storey: PSNI identifies number of ‘potential’ breaches of COVID-19 regulations at veteran republican’s funeral

Deputy Chief Constable, Mark Webster, of the Cumbria Constabulary was appointed to lead the investigation into the allegations that some people breached COVID-19 regulations when they attended the funeral at the end of June.

“Today an initial number of letters were issued to individuals who were identified as having been present on 30th June in potential breach of the Health Protection Regulations,” said DCC Webster.

“The letters are inviting these individuals to participate in a voluntary interview with investigating officers at a local police station.

“Upon receipt of a letter individuals will have 14 days to respond should they wish to take part in an interview.

“As this matter remains a live investigation there will be no further commentary at this time.”

DUP MLA Mervyn Storey welcomed the move.

“The focus on process is one thing and I’m glad to hear progress but an outcome is the most important,” he said.

“It is 81 days since the Covid-19 rules were fundamentally undermined by that event.

“This case, like every other investigation, must be based on the principle that everyone is equal under the law and be equally subject to the law. No-one is above the law.”

Among those to attend Mr. Storey’s funeral and subsequent cremation in Roselawn Cemetery included deputy First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, Finance Minister, Conor Murphy, former Sinn Fein president, Gerry Adams and current Sinn Fein president, Mary-Lou McDonald.

Ms. O’Neill was accused of undermining the Executive’s public health messaging.

The incident led to a halt in COVID-19 press conferences delivered jointly by First Minister Arlene Foster and Ms. O’Neill.

Ms. O’Neill has since admitted the public health message had been undermined by her attendance at the funeral.