John Swinney has said he has "no intention" of apologising for his comments about Sinn Fein's historical links with the IRA, despite calls from families of Scots killed in the Troubles. The First Minister previously urged people to "move on" from the era, which saw 140 Scottish soldiers lose their lives in Northern Ireland.
Speaking on Monday, Swinney defended his position, insisting Sinn Fein is an elected administration in Northern Ireland and that he deals with elected politicians. He added that the peace process has involved people moving on, and he is simply reflecting what has happened.
The SNP leader expressed respect for anyone who suffered as a consequence of the Troubles, saying political co-operation today does not undermine that respect. He also confirmed he is "very happy" to take forward collaboration with Sinn Fein and Plaid Cymru as administrations led by nationalists.
Swinney noted that Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland now all have nationalist first ministers for the first time, following elections on May 7. He argued that this collaboration could "change the dynamics of the United Kingdom" and help secure his objective of winning Scottish independence.
