Letter: The IRA murdered my dad so I feel sick when I hear hypocritical republicans complain about ‘shoot to kill’

A letter from Rev David Clements:
By Letters
Published 13th Apr 2024, 00:53 BST
The East Tyrone IRA murdered Rev Clements' RUC officer dad in 1985. His gun was stolen from his body and later used to kill at least three other men, before being recovered when the SAS stopped an IRA attack on Loughgall in 1987, aboveThe East Tyrone IRA murdered Rev Clements' RUC officer dad in 1985. His gun was stolen from his body and later used to kill at least three other men, before being recovered when the SAS stopped an IRA attack on Loughgall in 1987, above
The East Tyrone IRA murdered Rev Clements' RUC officer dad in 1985. His gun was stolen from his body and later used to kill at least three other men, before being recovered when the SAS stopped an IRA attack on Loughgall in 1987, above

I took note this week of the inquest into the killing of three members of the East Tyrone brigade of the IRA at Coagh in 1991.

The coroner ruled that the SAS were justified in their use of lethal force.

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Watching the evening news, I felt sick to my stomach listening to some republican supporters complaining about a ‘shoot to kill’ policy. I was interested in the case because the East Tyrone brigade of the IRA murdered my dad in 1985. He was shot twice. Once from a distance as the gang tricked their way into the RUC station in Ballygawley. Then, a second shot to the head from a few inches – the shot that killed him.

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His police issued weapon was stolen from his lifeless body. It was later used to render at least three other decent men lifeless, before being recovered at the scene of the attack on Loughgall police station, in May 1987. On that occasion eight members of the East Tyrone brigade of the IRA were suddenly dispatched into eternity – to face the final judgment of God.

Over the years I have engaged constructively (for the most part) with several republicans, including the well-known cousin of one of those who died at Coagh. It is not easy, but it is important work and most days I am still up for it.

If there are any surviving members of the East Tyrone brigade, or their families or friends, who want to chat, you will be welcome at the Cullybackey Methodist manse. I’ll make you a proper cup of coffee.

Just one thing though. Don’t dare complain about ‘shoot to kill’. If you do, be sure that I will call out your disgusting hypocrisy.

Rev David Clements, Cullybackey

Related topics:IRALoughgall