Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Adams and I can agree on this matter. Before he became a Member, the House agreed an all-party motion which was very clear in calling for a public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane. That is accepted by everyone in the Dáil. The British Government has clearly admitted that collusion took place in this instance. Prime Minister Cameron was very forthright, strong and correct in respect of the Blood Sunday inquiry. I have a difference of opinion with him in respect of the matter to which the Deputy refers. As a result of what Judge Cory stated and on foot of the agreement between both Governments which was made at Weston Park, I am of the view that holding a public inquiry would be the correct route to take. I am still of that opinion.

I cannot direct any other government. However, I raised this matter with the Prime Minister and I will continue to raise it with him. I am aware that my meeting with him took place on the day before the Finucane family was granted a judicial review which, I understand, is to be held in May. I do not know the position with regard what has happened in respect of the Queen's Counsel de Silva being appointed or any other related matters. We remain of the view that the best thing to do would have been to hold a public inquiry, specifically in light of the Weston Park agreement and because Judge Cory recommended that one should take place. I said that to Geraldine Finucane directly when I met her and her family in Belfast on the occasion of presenting an award to her. I undertook to raise this matter in the United States and I will do so when I have the opportunity to meet representatives over there.

As stated in the House on many occasions, I do not believe in any hierarchy of victims. Regardless of which side they were on, those who were shot, murdered or died as a result of the Troubles were lost by their families and loved ones. In the case of Pat Finucane, there was an agreement between the two Government to the effect that whatever Judge Cory recommended would happen. In this jurisdiction, the Smithwick tribunal was established as a result of the agreement to which I refer and on foot of the judge's recommendation. It continues to be my preference that this is what should happen in the case of Pat Finucane and I informed the Prime Minister directly of that fact. In light of what Mr. Cameron did in respect of the inquiry into the Bloody Sunday killings in Derry, I made sure to make that point very clear to him on behalf of all the representatives here and of the people of our country.

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