Jim Allister: Finucane cannot masquerade as campaigner for truth and justice while carrying flag for IRA's political wing

Following Sinn Fein candidate John Finucane's refusal to comment on the murder of Edgar Graham ('˜SF candidate candidate is asked about murder of lawyer,' June 2) it is worth remembering that the young unionist politician wasn't the only solicitor to be murdered by the IRA.

In October 1979 John Donaldson was shot by the IRA as he left Andersonstown RUC station on a motorbike. He had just delivered a summons to require a police officer to appear in court to give evidence in a compensation claim by an Andersonstown family.

John Finucane, the Sinn Fein candidate for North Belfast, with Sinn Fein Leader in the North Michelle O'Neill and Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly.
Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemakerplaceholder image
John Finucane, the Sinn Fein candidate for North Belfast, with Sinn Fein Leader in the North Michelle O'Neill and Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly. Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker

The IRA admitted responsibility for the murder saying he was shot by mistake.

The murder of Mr Finucane’s father is well known.

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The murder of Edgar Graham much less so.

But the murder of 23-year-old John Donaldson is almost totally forgotten.

Mr Finucane cannot masquerade as a campaigner for truth and justice while carrying the flag for the IRA’s political apologists in this election.

Jim Allister MLA, North Antrim

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