Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I met members of the McCartney family yesterday. Other Members of the House have also met them. I am aware that Deputy Kenny went to Belfast to meet them. I am sure Deputy Rabbitte and others have had similar meetings. We must get one thing straight once and for all. I say calmly that murder is murder, no matter who commits it. A crime is a crime, no matter who commits it. Everyone is equal before the law and innocent until proven guilty. Where a crime is committed it is investigated by the police, evidence is gathered, charges are brought and the accused receive a fair trial in an open court. We all believe in the rule of law, human rights and respect for the dignity of people. That is all the McCartneys want.

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