Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:

“That IRA man Gerry McGeough could be sentenced to 20 years for attempted murder and yet know for certain that he will serve a maximum of two is a frightful indication of just how the rule of law has been perverted in Northern Ireland.

“It is simply outrageous that a man who attempted to murder an other human being and spent so long on the run should get off so lightly.

“Today’s events are a timely reminder that, despite the claims of some Unionists, the Belfast Agreement remains alive and well and is still delivering for the men of violence. Not only that, but McGeough and others like him have friends round the executive table as Gildernew’s decision to provide him with a reference demonstrated.”