Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 237: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will raise once again with the British Government the murder of solicitor Mr. Pat Finucane; and if support will be given to the family on this matter. [7415/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I refer the Deputy to my reply to Deputy Gregory to Priority Question No. 61.

The House will be aware of the support the Government has given to the Finucane family in their long campaign for an independent public inquiry into the murder of Patrick Finucane. We fully agree with them on the need for a public inquiry as recommended by Judge Peter Cory.

As the Deputy is aware, the British Government's current position is that it proposes to hold an inquiry under the UK Inquiries Act 2005. This is unacceptable to the Finucane family. Both prior to and since the enactment of this legislation, the Government has raised its concerns about this legislation with the British Government, including directly by the Taoiseach in contacts with Prime Minister Blair.

The Government has also highlighted our difficulties with the legislation in our contacts with the US authorities and at appropriate international fora such as the UN Human Rights Commission and the Council of Europe. An inquiry under this Act would not be in line with the commitment made by the Governments at Weston Park and in line with the recommendations of Judge Cory.

I have continued to raise our concerns about the case with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and will continue to do so, with a view to finding a satisfactory outcome in this case. I met the family in November and my officials remain in regular contact with them to offer every support necessary. I can assure the Deputy that the Government follows developments in this case closely and will continue its efforts in support of the family's campaign for an independent public inquiry.