Gerry Adams, former Sinn Féin president, appeared in court to defend against a defamation lawsuit brought against the BBC. The BBC's Spotlight program and accompanying article alleged Adams sanctioned the 2006 killing of British informer Denis Donaldson.
Adams testified that he knew and liked Donaldson, but didn't have close dealings with him. Donaldson had worked for Sinn Féin in various roles, including at Stormont. Adams stated that after Donaldson was revealed as a British agent, he was dismissed from the party.
Adams expressed shock and described Donaldson as a 'victim' of the conflict. He noted the vulnerability of Donaldson's location before his death and the publication of a photo in the Sunday World. Adams contacted Donaldson's family following the killing.
The BBC denies defamation, asserting that the Spotlight program resulted from responsible journalism and investigation into a matter of public interest.
Adams' lawyer argued the BBC engaged in 'reckless journalism' by relying on a single anonymous source, unjustly attacking Adams' reputation as a 'peacemaker'. Adams categorically denies any involvement in Donaldson's death, attributing the allegations to attempts to discredit republicans.