Until Sinn Féin demonstrates that “it is prepared to face up to its violent past” there will be questions over its contribution to reconciliation, according to NI Conservatives’ spokesman, Mark Brotherston. Mark commented after Martin McGuinness attended a banquet for the President of the Republic of Ireland, hosted by the Queen, and a BBC Spotlight programme alleged that the IRA was involved in post ceasefire gunrunning. “It demonstrates the inconsistencies around Sinn Féin that, on the same night as Mr McGuinness toasted the Queen, fresh questions were raised about his party’s past and about how it is being dealt with”, Mark explained. “In order to contribute properly to a better future for all the people of Northern Ireland, Sinn Féin, as well as loyalists and other groups, need to acknowledge that all unlawful activity which took place during the Troubles was wrong. It also needs to accept that republicans, including its own senior members, could face trial and possible imprisonment for Troubles related offences, as part of the justice process.” “The official visit of the President of the Republic to the UK is an important moment for everyone on these islands. It represents the better, healthier relationships which we share. They offer the prospect of a brighter, more harmonious future, mutual cooperation and mutual prosperity. Martin McGuinness has contributed a significant post-script to these events, by participating willingly in the banquet at Windsor Castle. His party now has to show some more consistency and to get to grips with its dysfunctional attitude to the past, if it is to genuinely influence Northern Ireland for the better.”