Arabic version: جيرى آدامز ينفى تورطه مع الجيش الجمهوري الإيرلندي فى تفجيرات لندن خلال المحاكمة

Gerry Adams has asserted that he never held any role or rank within the IRA as he provides testimony in a civil trial in London. Three claimants are seeking a ruling that holds him personally liable for injuries sustained during bombings in London and Manchester.

According to BBC News, Adams, 77, stated in his witness statement that he was never a member of the IRA or its army council and had no involvement whatsoever in the authorisation, planning or conduct of the bombings in which the claimants were sadly injured. He emphasized his commitment to promoting peace in Ireland, despite being retired from active politics.

The claimants, including John Clark, a victim of the 1973 Old Bailey bombing, and Jonathan Ganesh and Barry Laycock, who were hurt in the 1996 attacks in London’s Docklands and at Manchester’s Arndale Shopping Centre respectively, are seeking £1 each in “vindicatory” damages. Adams’ legal team contends that the case is based on hearsay and has been filed decades too late, arguing that it should be dismissed under a three-year limitation period established in 1980.

This trial, now in its sixth day, features Adams as the sole witness in his defense. During questioning by Sir Max Hill KC, Adams acknowledged his historical association with the IRA but clarified that he does not condone all its actions. He expressed relief that the IRA has left the stage and highlighted his ongoing support for the peace process.

The claimants have garnered over £100,000 through crowdfunding to pursue their case against Adams. Notably, Adams is unable to recover his legal costs from the claimants, which could amount to six figures if he successfully defends against the allegations. Previously charged with IRA membership in 1978, those charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence, and his only convictions related to attempts to escape imprisonment were quashed in 2020.