Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am happy to accommodate such a response by the House to the Saville report, which is an important report in terms of the victims having been declared innocent. The purpose of the campaign for the new inquiry was to achieve this and was supported by all sides of the House. The findings of the report, the reaction of the people of Derry and the honest words of the British Prime Minister in Westminster will serve to significantly advance the cause of healing and reconciliation. I am aware that the families have a range of opinions in regard to where matters go from here. This is a deeply personal matter for them.

I spoke yesterday with some representatives of the families involved and will have an opportunity to meet with and listen to other representatives of the families later today. The Saville report is a massive publication. It will take some time for all those concerned to read, analyse and reflect on its findings. This includes the relevant authorities in Northern Ireland who must consider whether further investigations or prosecutions are to be proceeded with. We now have a thoroughly reformed and democratically accountable policing and justice system in Northern Ireland which must be allowed to discharge its responsibilities without interference and in accordance with the law.

I am happy to arrange for the taking of a series of statements on this matter by way of agreed motion and to enable those who wish to attend to do so.

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