Family of Sinn Féin Official Slams Irish Government Over Inquiry Rejection

The family of Denis Donaldson, a Sinn Féin official murdered in 2006, has criticized the Irish government for denying their request for a judge-led inquiry into his death. Donaldson, 55, was shot by the Real IRA at a remote cottage in Donegal, shortly after revealing his role as an informer for police and MI5 during the 1980s and 1990s. His inquest has faced numerous delays, having been adjourned 27 times at the request of An Garda Síochána. In a recent development, the Irish government rejected a request made by Donaldson's family three years ago to establish a commission of inquiry. The family alleges that some police officers involved in Donaldson's case may have been complicit in his murder. Justice Minister Helen McEntee responded to the family's appeal, stating that an inquiry could not proceed due to an ongoing criminal investigation. Donaldson's daughter, Jane, expressed her frustration, highlighting the government's inconsistency in handling legacy cases, particularly in Northern Ireland. She criticized the lack of accountability from Irish government ministers, who have not met with the family in the two decades since her father's murder. Jane pointed out that while other agents were protected, her father was left vulnerable, suggesting a failure of state agencies to ensure his safety. To date, no one has been convicted in connection with Donaldson's murder, leaving his family seeking justice and transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.