Overview

• A High Court jury found that the BBC’s Spotlight programme and accompanying article presented the allegation as fact and defamed Gerry Adams.
• Jurors concluded the broadcaster failed to act in good faith and did not publish the claim in a fair and reasonable manner.
• Adams denied any involvement in the 2006 killing of Denis Donaldson, whose execution the Real IRA later claimed responsibility for.
• The BBC maintained its investigation drew on multiple sources and served the public interest, but the court rejected its defence of fair publication.
• Commentators warn the verdict underscores the heavy burden on media organisations under Ireland’s defamation laws, where defendants must substantiate disputed claims.