Cllr Ritchie Culhane
Local TD Gerry Adams has rejected as “unfounded” an allegation today by Drogheda-based Fine Gael councillor Ritchie Culhane that he or Sinn Féin has any information on the death of Garda Detective Adrian Donohoe.
Cllr Culhane, a former player and manager with the Newtown Blues and an ex-colleague of Detective Garda Donohoe, told The Irish Independent today that: “There is nothing that happens in Crossmaglen and nothing that happens in South Armagh that Sinn Féin and the IRA don’t know about.”
However, while extending his “sympathy and solidarity’” with the Donohoe family at this difficult time, Deputy Adams today denied any knowledge of who was behind his killing a year ago tomorrow.
“I have appealed many times for anyone with any information in respect of Garda Donohoe’s death to bring that forward to the Garda or the PSNI.
“It is clear from the news reportage – including the Irish Independent this morning – that the Garda believe they know who is responsible, where they are at this time, and continue to seek information that will help bring them to justice.
“The murder of Garda Donohoe demands the fullest co-operation of everyone and support for the police services North and South.
“It is shameful that on the first anniversary of Garda Donohoe’s death that Fine Gael Councillor Ritchie Culhane should make this untrue claim.
“At this painful time I want to extend my deepest sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. I especially want to extend my solidarity and sincerest condolences to Adrian’s wife, Caroline, and his children, Amy and Niall.
“I never met Adrian Donohoe but I know many people who did and all describe him as a highly respected member of our local community and An Cumann Lúthcleas Gael. The passing of the year has not diminished the huge sense of loss felt by them and by his family.”
