Sinn Féin has reinstated five of the 12 party members it suspended in the wake of the murder of Robert McCartney in January, it emerged last night.
The party said that the five people readmitted to the party had followed leader Gerry Adams' instructions to give statements to Police Ombudsman Nuala O'Loan.
A sixth person had also given a statement to Mrs O'Loan but the party will make a decision on his fate “in due course“, a party spokesman said. Of the 12 suspended, four party members resigned and two were expelled for not obeying Mr Adams' calls.
Sinn Féin said it will continue to help the McCartney family and admitted it has reviewed party procedures in the light of the January 30 killing.
“Following the murder of Robert McCartney Sinn Féin made very clear our determination to help the McCartney family,” the spokesman said.
“We have worked hard on the ground to create the climate in which this can happen.”
Earlier this month a 49-year-old man appeared in court charged with the murder of father-of-two Mr McCartney .
A second man was charged with the attempted murder of Mr McCartney 's friend, Brendan Devine, on the same night.
Both were remanded in custody until July 1.
Sinn Féin said it ensured witnesses had come forward and made statements to solicitors, to the Police Ombudsman or directly to the PSNI. “Sinn Féin will continue to do all that we can to help the McCartney family,” a spokesman added. “In addition we have, as a result of our examination of these events, initiated a comprehensive review of the party in that area with particular reference to proper party practices, communication and accountability.”
The party said the five members readmitted to its ranks are among six who are continuing to co-operate with the Police Ombudsman's office.
“Five of these have had their suspensions lifted, with immediate effect, as they have complied with Sinn Féin's direction on this matter.
“A decision on the sixth person will be made in due course,” the spokesman added.