Statement from deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA re Peadar Heffron

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today said: "The news that Peadar Heffron has had a leg amputated will come as a terrible blow to him, his wife, his family, colleagues and friends.

"It is a particularly devastating development given Peadar's enthusiasm for sport and his active membership of the GAA.

"His love of the Irish language and Gaelic games, and his membership of the Police Service demonstrate how fundamentally the political situation has changed in recent times.

"Those responsible for this futile act know in their hearts that their actions cannot and will not succeed. This, of course, makes it all the more tragic that someone who makes such a valuable contribution to community should suffer at the hands of militarists without a political thought or strategy in their heads."