A chara, – Sinn Féin alleges that the Hallett report on so-called "on the Runs" was "politically driven" ("'On the runs' letters could still be an election issue for Conservatives", March 25th). The party has also stated in the recent past that demanding the truth on how the Provisional movement dealt with issues of abuse and cover-up is "politically driven". The phrase was also applied to the recent investigation by The Irish Times into how Sinn Féin sources its American funding. And when Gerry Adams was questioned about any knowledge or role in the disappearance of Jean McConville or others, what phrase did Sinn Féin use to describe the PSNI? Yes, "politically driven".
It is clear that nobody inside the Provisional movement has the courage to ask any questions about the party’s activities. If those outside dare to ask any questions, we can expect to hear the phrase “politically driven” used even more.
Holding those in positions of power to account is part of what politicians, journalists, and indeed citizens generally must do in a democracy. Even if the motivation might be described as “politically driven”, it does not take away from the validity of the questions.
Rather than just trot out the phrase, perhaps some, lone, honest voice in Sinn Féin might emerge and even dissent from the cult-like mantra? – Is mise,
Cllr MALCOLM BYRNE,
Gorey,
Co Wexford.