Léargas

  London Civil Case coming to an end This week I spent Lá Féile Pádraig in Derry/London. As you read this my time in the Royal Courts of Justice should be coming to an end. Regrettably, the court case prevented me from joining in the St Patrick’s festivities in Belfast or here. I am assured the London Irish have a vibrant, hugely enjoyable celebration of Irish music, culture and language so good luck to all the Paddys and Patricias. The civil case is expected to conclude on Thursday, although, that could slip. The case is based on hearsay and alleged intelligence claims made by witnesses who could provide no documentary supporting evidence. So far it has provided a platform for some highly offensive, insulting and untruthful commentary. What the Judge makes of all of this we will know when he delivers his judgement; although that might not be for some time yet. I want to thank my legal team and all of those who have offered their support and solidarity over recent weeks. As I said ...

  Dia daoibhse from London I’m writing this week’s column in London. Today, Monday, I’m in the Royal Courts of Justice in a civil case that has been brought against me by three claimants, innocent victims, who were injured in three IRA bomb attacks in 1973 and 1996. They are alleging that I was party to those attacks. There was a small crowd of former British soldiers outside the Court and some in the court room itself. There were also some people with tricolours showing their support. Today the legal teams for the claimants and for me made their opening submissions. My legal team set out logically and clearly my position. In summary, they said that I have consistently rejected claims that I was in the IRA. In this case I am also stating emphatically and unequivocally that I had no involvement in the three bomb attacks.  There will inevitably be a lot of media reporting of the case but it is important to point out that the case against me does not contain a single pi...