"Closely linked to IRA he fights for them with his books as his father fought with a gun."
A typical distortion of the facts - again.
Coogan is a historian who does not take sides - as critical of one side as of the other. - perhaps you would like to provide evidence of your claim - no? - I thought not.
His books centre of modern Irish politics and his "controversial" views are controversial because he does not take sides.
That his father fought with a gun for Irish independence from British rule is a point in his favour - most Irish politicians and public figures can and often do make the same claim and are regarded as descendents of national heroes (as are those of the French Resistance and supporters of Nelson Mandela).
Part of Coogan's 'controversial' image is that he supported Collins and The Free State signing of the Treaty - which is in total opposition to the Republican stance.
Do you really not have an honest point   to make on the subject of Ireland which is not twisted by your anti-Irish Unionist agenda and Little Englander flag-wagging?
Jim Carroll

"Timothy "Tim" Patrick Coogan (born 22 April 1935) is an Irish historical writer, broadcaster and newspaper columnist. He served as editor of The Irish Press newspaper from 1968 to 1987. Today, he is best known for his popular and sometimes controversial books on aspects of modern Irish history, including The IRA, Ireland Since the Rising, On the Blanket, and biographies of Michael Collins and Éamon de Valera.
His biography of Éamon de Valera proved the most controversial, taking issue with the former Irish president's reputation and achievements, in favour of those of Collins, whom he regards as indispensable to the creation of the new State."