01/05/2014

Adams In Custody Over 1972 Murder

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams is being questioned by the PSNI in connection with the murder of Jean McConville in 1972.

Mr Adams was arrested on Wednesday night.

Mrs McConville, 37, and a mother of 10 children, was abducted and shot by the IRA.

Her body was found on a beach in County Louth in 2003.

Last month, Gerry Adams said he was available to meet the PSNI about the Jean McConville case. That meeting started on Wednesday.

Mr Adams said: "Last month I said that I was available to meet the PSNI about the Jean McConville case. While I have concerns about the timing, I am voluntarily meeting with the PSNI this evening.

"As a republican leader I have never shirked my responsibility to build the peace. This includes dealing with the difficult issue of victims and their families.

"Insofar as it is possible I have worked to bring closure to victims and their families who have contacted me. Even though they may not agree, this includes the family of Jean McConville.

"I believe that the killing of Jean McConville and the secret burial of her body was wrong and a grievous injustice to her and her family.

"Well publicised, malicious allegations have been made against me. I reject these."

(CD)

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