Page "Bloody Sunday (1972)" Paragraph 35

Although there were many IRA men — both Official and Provisional — present at the protest, it is claimed they were all unarmed, apparently because it was anticipated that the paratroopers would attempt to " draw them out ".

March organiser and MP Ivan Cooper had been promised beforehand that no armed IRA men would be near the march.

One paratrooper who gave evidence at the Tribunal testified that they were told by an officer to expect a gunfight and " We want some kills ".

In the event, one man was witnessed by Father Edward Daly and others haphazardly firing a revolver in the direction of the paratroopers.

Later identified as a member of the Official IRA, this man was also photographed in the act of drawing his weapon, but was apparently not seen or targeted by the soldiers.

Various other claims have been made to the Saville Inquiry about gunmen on the day.