SF need to put a huge gulf between themselves and the terror of the past

Before the Barry McElduff saga is placed in the history books a number to things should be noted.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Jan 2018, 13:09 BST
Updated 18th Jan 2018, 13:17 BST
Mr McElduff supported the IRA men who met their fate at the hands of the SAS in Loughgall, above, in 1987, some of whom were suspected of the Kingsmill republican massacre. Picture PacemakerMr McElduff supported the IRA men who met their fate at the hands of the SAS in Loughgall, above, in 1987, some of whom were suspected of the Kingsmill republican massacre. Picture Pacemaker
Mr McElduff supported the IRA men who met their fate at the hands of the SAS in Loughgall, above, in 1987, some of whom were suspected of the Kingsmill republican massacre. Picture Pacemaker

The video incident which was the immediate cause of his demise must be seen in the contest of his previous behaviour.

This includes his support for the East Tyrone IRA who met their fate at Loughgall, and his adulation of Raymond McCresh, when he suggested that should be awarded a peace prize.

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Given that whose who died at Loughgall, and Raymond McCresh in particular, were suspected of involvement in the Kingsmills massacre, this puts the video incident into perspective.

Letters to editorLetters to editor
Letters to editor

This helps us to understand why it is difficult to accept that it was unintentional and why it was so hurtful.

The ‘punishment’ of suspension by Sinn Fein means that he is still an active member of that political party.

This stands in stark contrast to how the unionist parties dealt with incidents of much lesser significance. The DUP quickly dealt with the Paul Berry incident as did the UUP in relation the Lord Laird – both were expelled.

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If we are to make any progress in terms of the ‘reconciliation’ expressed by Barry McElduff, then both he and the party of which he is still a member, will need to create a huge gulf between themselves and the terrorism of the past.

Brian Kennaway (Rev), South Antrim

Related topics:LoughgallSinn Fein