Emer Currie (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach. I also thank the Minister for his words of comfort and reassurance and the compassion he has shown on this issue. It matters a great deal to victims, as does his commitment not to let this go, not to give up on reaching a consensus on legacy and if there are issues with the Stormont House Agreement, to try to reach consensus on something else.

Some weeks ago, I brought my father to Offaly to view a piece of art showing the late John Hume. In the picture, John has his hand out. The artist did not mean to do this but what I got from it was that John was passing the responsibility of reconciliation on to the next generation. We in this House have a responsibility to do that. I mean it when I say that I cannot see that happening without access to truth and justice.

I thank all of the Senators who contributed to the debate, namely, Senators Ward, Conway, Black, Moynihan, Boyhan, Ó Donnghaile, Seery Kearney, Martin, O’Loughlin, McGreehan, Blaney, Mullen, McDowell and Boylan. I listened to everyone’s heartfelt personal stories. There is no doubt that it is the unilateral action of one government that has brought us to this point. Our unity tonight is incredibly important and I am very pleased to hear that the Minister feels it can help in taking this forward.

On that note, it would be a good idea to send this motion and an update to every Member of the House of Lords which will also have a say in this. Next weekend, I and Senators Ó Donnghaile and Boyhan will attend a meeting of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly at which I hope we will get a chance to speak about the matter.

Nothing about this is easy. I say that having reflected on what everyone has said tonight, the different stories they related and all of the deaths involved. When we consider the number of deaths in the Troubles, the victims and the people who have suffered, everyone has their part to play in finding truth and giving comfort to families. That is not going to be easy but it has to be done. I thank everyone for their contributions.