Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I am pleased to have an opportunity to speak in the debate on the tribunal of inquiry into the fatal killing of RUC Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and RUC Superintendent Robert Buchanan in 1989. I consider this as another part of the peace process. It is essential that truth and justice are the key elements to this inquiry. These horrific deaths, like many others, were terrible events for all the families involved. I offer my deepest sympathy to the victims in this case and to all the victims of the Northern Ireland Troubles.

This issue also raises the question of collusion. It is important that we all face up to these difficulties and I hope we will learn from them so that we can take the gun out of Irish politics and make democratic politics work for all people on this island. It is also important that we treat all victims with the same respect. We must acknowledge the pain and suffering of all the victims of the conflict over the 30-year period. Truth and justice will lead to forgiveness and, I hope, healing in the long term.

Most people on the island want this process to work. It is up to all Members of this House and our colleagues in the North to face up to the major problems related to the conflict. Although in today's climate it may be unpopular, I stand by the architects of the peace process. I am not jumping ship when things get tough. Good political leadership is always difficult and we need it now more than ever. There is no room for the faint-hearted or for people to walk away from the peace process.

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