Gerry Adams suffered ‘unjustified attack on reputation’ when BBC broadcast allegation he sanctioned murder, court hears.

Making his opening statement to the jury, Mr Hogan said Mr Adams needed no introduction.

He said: “He is credited, with others, in bringing about the peace process in Northern Ireland.”

GERRY Adams’ reputation as a “peacemaker” suffered an “unjustified” attack when the BBC broadcast an allegation that he had sanctioned the murder of an informer, a civil case has been told.

Barrister for Mr Adams, Tom Hogan SC, accused the BBC of “reckless” and “arrogant” behaviour, and believing it could say anything about Mr Adams.

Mr Adams was called as the first witness today