Mullan calls for cross-border probe into sale of Project Eagle

“The SDLP believes the only way to achieve the truth and accountability is to have a joint PSNI, NCA and Garda Síochána team to investigate the criminal allegations,” said Mr Mullan.

“Provision exists for that approach, and it should be deployed now and without any further delay.

“That would help to build confidence that all the evidence will be pursued, obtained and properly scrutinised.

“Any inquiry established must, at its core, reflect that the alleged corruption at the heart of the deal is an all-island scourge and a resolution can be achieved only through a comprehensive, all-island investigation. There are jurisdictional issues involved in parallel criminal investigations, but we cannot allow the border to become a barrier to justice or accountability for the Irish people. Any cross-border investigation will require changes to legislation,” he added.