Gerry Adams is calling for witness protection schemes as replacement for the Special Criminal Court.

Sinn Féin says it would abolish the non-jury courts if elected to Government and has faced criticism for the stance following the gunning down of David Byrne in a Dublin hotel on Friday.

The Special Criminal Court was set up during the troubles to remove the possibility of juror intimidation in serious crime cases.

The juryless court has been criticised by leading international human rights organisations for its procedures and for dealing with civilian cases. 

Speaking on the hustings in Dublin today Mr Adams says if the system worked as it stands, Friday's shooting wouldn't have happened:

The Taoiseach says Sinn Féin are not fit for Government and would put the security of the State at risk.

Speaking in Ballina, Enda Kenny was asked if Sinn Féin were fit for Government:

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil says Friday's shocking assassination is proof that the Special Criminal Court needs to remain in place to deal with organised crime.

Spokesperson on Justice Niall Collins said people are disgusted with Sinn Féin's rhetoric on ending the special Criminal Court: