Sinn Féin TDs linked to prison guard killing

Martin Ferris. Photo: Tom Burke

Niall O'Connor and Kevin Doyle

Sinn Féin is in turmoil after two of Gerry Adams's most senior TDs were publicly linked to the murder of prison officer Brian Stack.

Former IRA gun-runner Martin Ferris and Provo bomb-maker Dessie Ellis were named in an email sent by their party leader to the Garda Commissioner as two people who may have information about the 1983 killing.

Mr Adams attempted to put the controversy to bed in a statement to the Dáil - rejecting suggestions of improper behaviour, in relation to the Stack family's attempts to establish the truth.

However, the Dáil was stunned when Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell named the two deputies using the protection of Dáil privilege. He said that Mr Ferris and Mr Ellis should make statements, as they were among four people named in the email sent by Mr Adams.

It resulted in chaos as both TDs furiously denied knowledge of the killing.

Mr Stack's sons Austin and Oliver observed from the Dáil's visitor gallery.

Dessie Ellis

Austin Stack said: "Sinn Fein TDs have chosen to back a liar over a victim. Gerry Adams has told untruth after untruth. His colleagues should hang their heads in shame."