SINN FÉIN and the DUP have clashed angrily over the troubled transfer of policing and justice powers to Stormont.
Gerry Adams yesterday called for the DUP to desist from what he called “grandstanding” over contentious parades and calls for the abolition of the Parades Commission. He also accused the leading unionist party of linking its call for the commission to be scrapped to its consent for justice devolution.
The DUP hit back at Mr Adams last night, accusing the Sinn Féin president of being an “unmitigated liar”. DUP leader Peter Robinson told MPs at Westminster earlier this week that abolition of the Parades Commission, which rules on contentious marches, could help build unionist confidence in justice devolution. He argued that the commission, which is widely opposed by members of the loyal orders, rather than offering solutions, is part of the problem itself.
Mr Robinson has backed the review of parading headed by former Liberal Democrat leader Lord [Paddy] Ashdown which includes a republican representative. He accused Mr Adams of trying to distance himself from the review’s findings and of politicising it.
Mr Adams said a deal had been done on policing and justice and that other issues could be addressed by the four parties in the Executive.