North Belfast MLA Phillip Brett has commended the family of Robert McCartney for their pursuit of justice, following a BBC documentary about the case. Brett said the programme served as a reminder of the family's bravery, dignity and integrity during their campaign.

Robert McCartney was killed in Belfast in 2005, and the documentary examined the efforts of his family to secure accountability. Brett said the family had faced intimidation and threats, and that a culture of silence had existed.

The DUP representative argued that the documentary raised questions for Sinn Féin representatives. He said their response to the case had put political and reputational loyalties ahead of justice for the victim.

McCartney's killing followed a dispute in a Belfast bar. His family's campaign drew international attention and led to pressure on Sinn Féin over its links to the IRA.

Brett said the family's campaign over more than 20 years was an inspiration to others who had lost loved ones to terrorism, including in the years after the Belfast Agreement.