Dissident Irish Republicans Fail to Represent Irish People - Ex-IRA Member

Member of Northern Ireland’s Legislative Assembly and former member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) said that responsible for car bomb attack in Belfast do not speak for or act in the name of the Irish people.

EDINBURGH (Sputnik) – The group claiming to be behind the March 4 car bomb attack that fatally wounded a Northern Irish prison officer does not speak for all Irish people, a member of Northern Ireland’s Legislative Assembly and former member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) said Tuesday.

Adrian Ismay, 52, was pronounced dead earlier on Tuesday after being readmitted to the hospital. A dissident republican group calling itself the New IRA claimed responsibility for detonating an explosive device under Ismay’s van in east Belfast over a week ago.

"Those responsible for this attack, regardless of what they choose to call themselves, do not speak for or act in the name of the Irish people," Raymond McCartney said in a statement.

McCartney said the act served "no purpose whatsoever and will not advance any political aim," adding that it has been condemned by all sections of society.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Campbell told Sputnik one man has been charged with attempted murder and causing an explosion with intent to endanger life, as the investigation into the attack continues.

Dissident Irish republican violence has been rising in recent months, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland warning earlier this month that attacks could increase in the run-up to the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising against British rule.

In July 2005, the Provisional IRA announced an end to its armed conflict, vowing to pursue "democratic politics."