Courts / Ireland / Report
BBC will claim Gerry Adams was leading IRA member in defamation defence
Summary
In a High Court hearing on 15 December 2021, the BBC defended itself against defamation claims by former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams. The broadcaster argued that Adams was a leading IRA member, served on its Army Council, and had a history of not condemning the killing of informers. It claimed Adams had lied about not being in the IRA and that the 2016 'Spotlight' programme and a follow‑up BBC website article, which alleged Adams had sanctioned the 2006 killing of former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson, were made in good faith and constituted responsible journalism. Adams denied any involvement in Donaldson's death and said the allegations were attempts to discredit Republicans. The BBC sought discovery of documents from Adams to support its defence, while Adams' lawyers opposed the request as a fishing expedition. The judge reserved her decision.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: BBC will claim Gerry Adams was leading IRA member in defamation defence. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- 2021-12-15 Publication
Case subjects
Applicant
Applicant
Places mentioned
- High Court
- The High Court
Topics
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