Adams calls on premiers to set up Finucane murder inquiry

Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams has again called on the British and Irish premiers to set up a judicial inquiry into the murder of Belfast Solicitor Pat Finucane.

Mr Adams has written to both Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern to request the establishment of a full independent judicial inquiry into the murder to investigate claims of collusion by security forces.

The only person to yet face a trial in connection with the murder, William Stobie, was freed in November when the case brought against him collapsed when the leading witness was unable to give testimony.

Mr Adams maintains that there is intense public pressure for a full and independent inquiry into the events surrounding the 1989 murder of Pat Finucane. He said that the British government could “not avoid dealing with the scandal” and said that there had to be an impartial investigation into the affair.

One element of the Weston Park talks held earlier this year involved a decision to appoint a senior member of the judiciary to examine the murder case, but Northern Ireland Secretary John Reid has yet to make a decision whether or not there should be a public inquiry. (SP)