Irish media report criticism of the Irish president for not responding publicly after an image surfaced showing the president with an individual described as an IRA killer. A DUP MLA, Trevor Clarke, who says he lost a brother-in-law during the Troubles, condemns the lack of a direct response and characterizes the situation as “shameful.”
Both outlets say Clarke says the silence compounds harm for those affected by the person’s past actions, expressing that he “feels pain” on behalf of the family of the individual referenced in the reporting. The Irish Independent also notes that the president’s office says it will “address matters” directly, suggesting an official engagement rather than a formal public statement being immediately provided.
While the criticism focuses on perceived accountability and sensitivity toward victims and bereaved families, the reported differences center on the emphasis placed on the MLA’s response versus the office’s intention to handle the issue directly. No details are provided in the excerpts about what the office will do or when any response may occur.
