Gerry Adams IRA Trial: Former Army Officer and Ex-IRA Member Testify

A civil trial in London is examining allegations that Gerry Adams, former leader of Sinn Féin, was directly involved in decisions related to Provisional IRA bombings in England during the 1970s and 1990s. Three victims of IRA attacks are seeking a symbolic £1 in damages, arguing Adams was culpable for the violence.

Intelligence Officer Alleges Adams’ Role on Army Council

Richard Kemp, a retired British Army colonel and former intelligence officer, testified that it was “inconceivable” Gerry Adams was not involved in decisions authorizing bombings in London and Manchester in 1996, asserting Adams was a member of the IRA’s Army Council at the time. Source Kemp served multiple tours in Northern Ireland and held intelligence roles from 1992 to 2005, giving him access to detailed information regarding Adams’ alleged activities within the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA). He stated intelligence sources explicitly identified Adams as a member of the Army Council and documented his attendance at meetings.

Kemp’s testimony centers on the understanding that any bomb attacks on British soil would have required approval from the Army Council, of which Adams was allegedly a member. This includes the bombings in London’s Docklands in 1996 and the Manchester bombing that same year.

Former IRA Member Claims Adams Was in the Organization

Shane Paul O’Doherty, a former IRA member who served 14 years in prison for a letter bomb campaign in London, also testified, claiming Gerry Adams was a member of the organization. Source O’Doherty, who described himself as a former explosives officer for the IRA’s Derry Brigade, has publicly criticized Adams for years, referring to him as “King Rat” and making other disparaging remarks. He maintains his testimony is motivated by a pursuit of truth and support for victims, not personal animosity.

O’Doherty alleged Adams held a “command and control role” within the IRA. He confirmed he had never met or spoken to Adams prior to the trial.

Adams Denies Involvement

Gerry Adams continues to deny any involvement in the Provisional IRA and is opposing the claims made against him. Source His lawyers have argued the case relies on “an assortment of hearsay evidence” and criticized the timing of the legal action, which comes decades after the attacks.

Victims’ Campaigner Calls for Accountability

Kenny Donaldson, chair of the South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF), a Northern Ireland victims’ group, stated the civil action represents an important step towards accountability for Adams’ alleged role in the Troubles. Source Donaldson emphasized the case is not about seeking imprisonment or financial compensation, but about acknowledging the suffering of victims and holding individuals responsible for their actions.

Adams, 77, maintains his innocence and the trial continues at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.