Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Relationships between Ireland and Britain are particularly good at the moment. The main reason for this is the partnership that exists regarding Northern Ireland. However, one area still requires attention – perhaps we could have a debate on it – that is, the in-built bias in the judicial system against Irish people. A young Irishman from Carrick-on-Suir, Christy McGrath, is languishing in prison. He was convicted in the most dubious of circumstances on the basis of very questionable evidence. Senior parliamentarians in Britain and Ireland have come out in support of him, as have many personalities in other walks of life. He is now seeking an appeal and is represented by the well-known solicitor Gareth Pearce. I fear that he may languish in prison for ten years before an appeal is granted.

One year ago a Clonmel man was released, having served almost 30 years, and his conviction was overturned. He was another innocent man who spent almost his whole life in prison. It is time to reach an understanding with the British Government that its judicial system should be impartial and fair when dealing with Irish people. Christy McGrath is a leading jockey who comes from a very respectable family and is supported by his local community. The only hope we have is that the Houses of the Oireachtas will take the lead in this regard.