Gerry Adams responds to 'Spotlight' programme

RESPONDING to allegations made by Paudie McGahon in a BBC Spotlight programme due to be broadcast this evening, Louth TD and Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has reiterated that Sinn Féin’s priority is to support victims of abuse, whether that abuse is historical or contemporary. He repeated that the party will support victims in their efforts to get truth and justice.

“Sinn Féin has rigorous child protection guidelines,” Gerry Adams said. “At all times the Sinn Féin representatives seek to support the victims of alleged abuse.

“We believe that all victims of abuse should be supported to access the justice system and social services and that the most appropriate bodies to deal with these allegations are the Garda and Social Services.”

Gerry Adams previously acknowledged that the actions of republicans in the past in dealing with allegations of sexual abuse were inadequate and inappropriate.

“Paudie McGahon clearly feels badly let down,” he said. “Nothing that I may say will change this but it is a matter of deep regret to me. I hope that justice is served and support delivered to Mr McGahon.

“Sinn Féin’s priority is to support victims of abuse whether that abuse is historical or contemporary and we will support victims in their efforts to get truth and justice.”

A Garda investigation into the allegations is ongoing, the Sinn Féin leader pointed out.

“That is why when this case was brought to the attention of local representatives I am assured that the victims of the alleged abuse were advised in person and writing to go to An Garda Síochána.

“Martin McGuinness has proposed a victim-centred approach to deal with the issue of abuse, an approach that would provide support to victims and access to the justice system. This would be anchored in the North/South Ministerial Council and allow victims to come forward to access support and those with information to pass it to the Garda or PSNI for investigation.”

Meanwhile, in a statement released through Madden & Finucane Solicitors, Pádraic Wilson said:

“I do not know nor have I ever met Mr McGahon. I have had no dealings whatsoever with the man he alleges raped him.

“As a victim of alleged abuse Mr McGahon has every right to have his allegations pursued through due process. But I refute entirely the allegations that he has made against me. They are completely baseless and untrue.

“I am concerned that media outlets and political leaders are repeating these allegations as fact when they are without foundation.

“I am aware that there is an ongoing Garda investigation. I have previously, through my legal representative, offered to voluntarily attend for questioning to clear up this matter. That remains my position.”