Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know this is an issue the Deputy has had ample opportunity in recent weeks to raise with the designated line Minister, my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Fitzgerald. I can say to the House that my colleague, the Minister, Deputy Fitzgerald, has raised this directly with her counterpart, the Home Secretary, Amber Rudd. If there are any further developments I would be happy to keep the Deputy fully informed.

Deputy Crowe raised an important point. I expressed my concern at the comments of the Secretary of State, James Brokenshire. I reaffirm to the House that I am committed to the architecture set out in the Stormont House Agreement, which provides the best framework for dealing comprehensively with the legacy of the past.

There are no amnesties for prosecution provided for in the Good Friday Agreement or in any other agreement, including the Stormont House Agreement. The Government would by no means look favourably on any proposal to introduce such a measure. The rule of law, including the requirement for effective investigations of unlawful killings, must be upheld by all responsible authorities.

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