Paris attacks condemned by Sinn Féin leaders

AS NEWS of the apparently co-ordinated gun and bomb attacks at several locations in Paris was reaching people around the world on Friday night, Sinn Féin leaders expressed their condemnation of the onslaught that by Saturday morning was said to have claimed more than 120 lives as well as countless wounded.

Targets included bars and restaurants, the Stade de France sports stadium, and the Bataclan theatre, where an American rock band was performing and where scores of fans – at first reported to be around 80 – lost their lives in a siege situation. It is thought most of the estimated eight attackers, wearing suicide vests, killed themselves and at least one was shot dead by police. France has declared a national state of emergency.

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD said as news was coming in:

“The deplorable attacks tonight in Paris are to be condemned. My thoughts at this time are with those killed or injured.”

Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald TD tweeted:

“Thoughts and solidarity with the people of Paris and France tonight.”

Martin McGuinness MLA, deputy First Minister in the North's Executive, tweeted:

“Shocking news from Paris. Thoughts & prayers with the families of those killed & injured. #Sad”