Statement by Sam Gardiner (UUP) on the Rosemary Nelson Inquiry Report, (24 May 2011)

Statement by Sam Gardiner, then Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) MLA for Upper Bann, on the publication of the Report into the death of Rosemary Nelson, (24 May 2011)

"The key finding of the Nelson enquiry, that there was no collusion by the police or any other government agency in the murder of Rosemary Nelson, is an important vindication of the RUC. Also, as reaction to the report's findings has unfolded during the last 24 hours, it is clear that the police enquiry following Rosemary Nelson's death is widely accepted as having been a proper and energetic enquiry.

While the report says that it cannot exclude the possibility that rogue elements within the police might been involved, it is important to remember that no organisation is immune from rogue elements within it. It is also important to remember, however, that this later assertion is not backed by any evidence of any kind and cannot, therefore, be considered as having equal validity with the main findings that there was no collusion by the police.

I believe that it is important for all of us to remember the immense sacrifice the RUC made to protect the lives of ordinary citizens from a brutal terrorist campaign. Without their service and sacrifice we would not have made the political progress we have made.

I want to extend my sympathies to Rosemary Nelson's family and I can understand their unhappiness with all that has happened since they have lost a wife, a mother and a daughter. Oor thoughts must always be with the victims"