13 OCTOBER 2001, Page 46

Man of honour

From Mr Henry McDonald

Sir: Your reference to Martin O'Hagan (Portrait of the week, 6 October) as a 'republican journalist' was totally inappropriate. Before his death, I had no idea what the reporter's personal beliefs were; nor did you. May I also remind you that in 1989 Marty was kidnapped, interrogated and threatened with death by the Provisional IRA's South Armagh brigade. Throughout his career he upset all sides in the Troubles — a badge of honour, in my opinion.

Dubbing Marty as a 'republican journalist' only lends an excuse to bonehead loyalists who would exculpate the LVF murderers.

Henry McDonald Ireland Editor, The Observer, London EC1