HORSE-TRADING over sentencing those linked to the death of Harry Holland undermines confidence in justice, Gerry Adams has said.
The west Belfast greengrocer (65) was stabbed in the head with a screwdriver near his home in Norfolk Drive in September 2007.
The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) has asked attorney general Baroness Scotland to consider whether sentences handed down earlier this year to those involved in the murder were unduly lenient.
But Mr Adams, Sinn Féin MP for Belfast West, said: “The exchanges which took place between the PPS and the defence representatives were not disclosed to the Holland family.
“The handling of this aspect of the case by the PPS did not serve the public interest.
“It undermined the confidence of the family and the wider community in the administration of justice.
“It was contrary to the new quality of engagement between the community and the criminal justice system which we are working to achieve in this society.”
Last month, Stephen McKee (18) from Ballymurphy Road in west Belfast, was ordered to serve at least 12 years in jail for Mr Holland’s murder.
Two other teenagers were also sentenced in connection with the killing. Patrick Crossan (18) from Willowbank Gardens in west Belfast, was sentenced to four years for attempted affray and having an offensive weapon.
A 17-year-old girl was placed on a probation order for two years after she admitted charges of affray and common assault.
Mr Adams has written to the Attorney General on behalf of the Holland family.
A spokeswoman for the PPS said: “The PPS is aware that Mr Adams has written to the Attorney General Baroness Scotland.
“The PPS does not comment on sentencing imposed by the independent judiciary. However, because of the Holland family’s concern as to sentencing, the PPS has brought this to the Attorney General’s attention.”