Trimble 'terrorist' comments criticised

Ulster Unionist leader, David Trimble has come under fire today after suggesting that two solicitors killed suspiciously during 'The Troubles' had terrorist connections.

Speaking during a speech in the House of Commons following the handing over of the Cory Report to the families of Rosemary Nelson and Pat Finucane, as well as Billy Wright and Robert Hamill, Mr Trimble talked about those who "have a clear terrorist connection".

"What steps were taken to give Justice Cory information about the nature of the situation in Northern Ireland, about how the police and the Army operated there, about how people such as Mr Finucane operated and about the nature of his associations and contacts?" he added.

His comments, which are believed to have been aimed at the deaths of solicitors Mrs Nelson and Mr Finucane, have angered both families.

Mrs Nelson's brother Eunan Magee described the comments as "totally wrong" and demanded that the Upper Bann MP withdraw the remarks immediately. The Finucane family also expressed anger at the remarks.

Full public inquiries are to be launched to investigate alleged security force collusion into the murders of Mrs Nelson, Mr Wright and Mr Hamill.

The separate inquiries to be held as soon as possible and will have a similar standing to the long-running Bloody Sunday Inquiry.

An inquiry into the murder of Mr Finucane will be delayed until ongoing legal proceedings are completed. A man charged in relation to the Finucane case is to stand trial later this year.

Copies of the report by retired Canadian Judge Cory were handed to the families of the four murder victims on Wednesday.

(MB)