DUP leader accuses Saville Inquiry of discrimination

The leader of the Democratic Unionist Party Dr Ian Paisley has accused the Bloody Sunday Inquiry of “political discrimination”.

Having ignored a witness summons to attend the Inquiry on Tuesday, Mr Paisley testified on Wednesday following a threat that he would be reported for contempt of court if he ignored an order to appear.

Giving his testimony on Wednesday Dr Paisley accused the Inquiry of “political discrimination” and said that he was amazed by their attitude to him and the obvious haste to get him there.

Lawyers had wanted to question the North Antrim assembly member why his party called off a counter demonstration planned for the same day outside the Guildhall at the last minute. However Mr Paisley said that he was not involved in the planning of the demonstration and did not know why it was called off.

He said the tribunal should ask the party officer quoted in the press at the time, adding that this man had not been questioned or ordered to give evidence.

Christopher Clarke QC, counsel to the inquiry, assured him every effort was being taken to get him to give evidence.

The Bloody Sunday Inquiry sitting in Derry is examining the events of 30 January 1972 when 13 civilians were shot dead by British Army soldiers during a civil rights march in the city. A 14th person died later.

Set up by British Prime Minister Tony Blair in 1998 following a campaign by the families and relatives of those killed, the Blood Sunday Inquiry is expected to report its findings in 2004. By which time the Inquiry’s bill is expected to top more than £120 million.

(AMcE)