SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has commented on the inappropriate statement issued by Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams on the conviction of Slab Murphy.
Mr Adams said on Sunday that the former IRA Chief of Staff had been treated differently from bankers and TDs over their tax irregularities.
He added that ‘Slab’ was also denied the right to a fair trial in front of a jury of his peers. Instead, he was tried by three judges and found guilty to evading tax.
Colum Eastwood has hit back at the Sinn Fein president’s comments.
He said: “Gerry Adams’ comments on the conviction of Mr Murphy are unacceptable, and completely inappropriate for the leader of a political party to make.
“Simply, it is unbefitting for the leader of a political party to continue to back a convicted criminal.
“Under the rule of law, after a case undertaken by the Criminal Assets Bureau, Mr Murphy has been found guilty of all nine charges on tax evasion.
“This case has been ongoing for nearly 10 years, and it is positive that there has been an outcome. Tax evasion is a serious issue, and those who knowingly evade paying them are undoubtedly criminals.
“It is shameful that in his statement, Mr Adams again described Mr Murphy as a ‘Good Republican’. This description does not match with my view of republicanism. It is not republican to deprive the Irish Government of tax revenue.
“The time has come for Gerry Adams to address the nature of his relationship with Mr Murphy and for Sinn Féin to face up to the issue of paramilitary criminality, across the island. Mr Adams and Sinn Fein’s views on the rule of law and tax evasion have come to light following these comments about Mr Murphy.
“Questions remain surrounding Mr Adams’ leadership, and his ability to lead in Government.
“The people of Ireland should take note of these comments made by Mr Adams when deciding who they believe should lead the Government after the elections.”