A prominent Sinn Féin representative in Belfast was questioned by IRA
internal security on Christmas Eve about allegations that he is a top-level
British spy, republican sources have claimed.
The political figure, whose name is known to the Sunday Tribune, was
allegedly held for several hours before he was released. He has been
involved with the republican movement since the early 70s and there is a
republican tradition within his family.
The IRA in Belfast has been thrown into complete disarray by Denis
Donaldson's exposure as a British agent. Many members are now refusing to
attend internal meetings because of the likely presence of spies.
In rural areas, there is growing suspicion of the Belfast IRA and anger at
internal security's "incompetence".
The Sinn Féin representative reportedly questioned by internal security was
public relations' officer for the Belfast Brigade in the 70s and is also
believed to have been an IRA intelligence officer.
His military involvement ended many years ago. He is best known for his
political contribution to the Provisionals and was a member of Gerry Adams
think-tank which decided Sinn Féin strategy.
He was instrumental in the pre-peace process period in terms of policy
formulation but has played an increasingly minor role in Sinn Féin in recent
years. He is known for his staunchly pro-leadership line.
He played an important behind-the-scenes role liasing on behalf of the
leadership with the H-Block hunger-strikers in 1981. His reputation as a
political moderate has made him unpopular with IRA grassroots for many
years.
Three other individuals have also fallen under suspicion in republican
ranks. They include another prominent Sinn Féin representative who has a
history of IRA involvement and is well-respected; a former Belfast Sinn Féin
representative; and a veteran republican who has no Sinn Féin associations.
Again, no evidence has been produced against any of the men. Three
prominent members of the Provisional movement were visited by police over
Christmas and warned they were in danger of being "outed" as informers.
Meanwhile, there are indications the DUP is prepared to consider "a
stepping-stone" to a new power-sharing Executive at Stormont.
Northern Secretary, Peter Hain, has urged nationalists and unionists to do
everything possible to restore devolution in the North.
DUP deputy leader Peter Robinson ruled out a power-sharing executive being
formed this year. "I don't see any prospect of the ingredients required for
executive devolution being in place in 2006.
"The Secretary of State should be moving towards what is attainable rather
than chasing moonbeams," Robinson told the Sunday Tribune.
However, DUP sources said the party might consider devolution arrangements
which could include the Assembly and Assembly committees sitting at
Stormont, with both legislative and administrative functions.
