The lives of 400 people have been placed at risk because they have not been warned about how they may be affected by a breach at a Belfast security complex, Sinn Féin said today.
Party policing spokesman Mr Gerry Kelly criticised Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy and Security Minister Ian Pearson over their handling of the security breach at Castlereagh.
Last month police confirmed they and the British army were investigating a security breach in the complex.
It later emerged that 28 members of the Royal Irish Regiment were being questioned about the disappearance of a security dossier and they had been transferred to alternative duties.
Republicans believe the personal details of around 400 people may have been compromised.
However the Security Minister has said he is satisfied following discussions with senior police officers that the material had not fallen into the hands of paramilitaries.
Mr Kelly today said: "Since returning from the USA, Paul Murphy, obviously unimpressed by Ian Pearson's handling of the Civil Service dispute, got personally involved in efforts to find a resolution.
Party policing spokesman Gerry Kelly
"Ian Pearson's performance regarding the ongoing Castlereagh collusion scandal has been even more inept. As British Security Minister with responsibility for these matters Mr Pearson at first attempted to suppress the story.
"He has directed in alliance with the PSNI Special Branch a deliberate cover-up of the circumstances of this security breach. He has ensured the lives of up to 400 people have been placed in danger and is refusing to inform them of this fact," Mr Kelly said.
"However, ultimately the buck has to stop with Paul Murphy. He is supposed to be in charge at the NIO."