Doherty: Attack on SDLP leader

A leading Sinn Fein politician has branded SDLP leader Mark Durkan "a disgrace".

In an interview with ePolitix.com, West Tyrone parliamentary candidate Pat Doherty said the SDLP chief's "attempt to equate republicanism with criminality" would be his biggest mistake.

Doherty was asked about Durkan's assertion - in an earlier interview with this website - that Sinn Fein are using their electoral mandate to justify criminality.

He replied: "I think [Durkan] is disgraceful, he is a disgrace. He is clutching at straws because he doesn't have any kind of project."

He said that Sinn Fein, which has eclipsed the SDLP as the biggest party seeking a united Ireland, is continuing to grow.

"The aspirations of the people of the north, of the six counties, has gone way beyond what the SDLP have to offer," added Doherty.

"Durkan has made various mistakes right throughout this whole peace process, and to attempt to equate republicanism with criminality is going to be one of his biggest ones if he continues to do that.

"That seems to be on the cards and I condemn that."

Kennedy snub

The senior republican also criticised Senator Ted Kennedy for snubbing Gerry Adams during his recent trip to the US.

Kennedy and other prominent Irish Americans refused to meet the Sinn Fein president in the aftermath of Robert McCartney's murder.

Doherty said the senator "made a mistake, I think he was badly advised".

The West Tyrone candidate went on to say that his party could win seven seats despite the fallout from McCartney's killing, allegedly by IRA members.

"The ironic thing about the horrendous killing of Robert McCartney and the campaign the sisters were running, is that it won't affect our core support," he said.

"You can see that from the by-election in Meath. The issue of justice for the McCartney family is absolutely crucial and we support it totally but it doesn't mean it will effect our vote."

Peace process

Predicting an increase in the DUP's support, he went on to set out the future of the peace process, saying it was the "single biggest thing" in the election campaign.

"I think there is potential for development once the election is out of the way, I can't see anything happening this side of the election," Doherty added.

"We need to try and get all aspects of the agreement up and running again, because the experience of working under direct rule ministers is not a good one."