Tributes and Criticism Follow McFarlane's Death

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has paid tribute to Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane, a former senior IRA member, following his death at 74 after a short illness. McFarlane, who was the IRA commander during the 1981 Maze prison hunger strikes, was known for his involvement in a 1975 bombing that killed five people and injured dozens. He was also part of a 1983 mass escape from the Maze and was implicated in the kidnapping of Don Tidey, though charges were later dropped. McDonald described him as a 'giant of Irish republicanism' and a 'great patriot' committed to Irish unity. However, former justice minister Charlie Flanagan criticized McDonald's tribute, calling McFarlane's actions 'vicious sectarian crimes' and questioning the alignment of Sinn Féin with the rule of law. Sinn Féin has not responded to these criticisms but continues to honor McFarlane for his dedication to the republican cause.