Statement by Alban Maginness (SDLP) about the alleged IRA spy ring at Stormont in October 2002, (8 December 2005)

Statement by Alban Maginness, then Justice Spokesperson of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), following the withdrawal of prosecutions in connection with an alleged IRA spy ring at Stormont in October 2002, (8 December 2005)

"We are told that the decision not bring charges in relation to this case is not in the ‘public interest’. What is required now is a public explanation as to why a decision not to present evidence in this case was taken. The public deserve to know why this was done and if the Attorney General in conjunction with the DPP took this decision after consultation with the Government. If so, what was the reason for this? What constitutes and who decides exactly what the public interest is? People will remember cases in the past relating to the British Government Shoot to Kill policy in the North when charges where withdrawn in the ‘public interest’.

The continued existence of non-explained or half explained decisions that have a direct and damaging effect on the political process should not be allowed to continue. The evidence should be made public, as should the explanation for dropping these charges. What is the reasoning behind today’s decision? That is the first point that needs be clarified."