Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 269: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support the work of a group (details supplied) in their efforts for truth, justice and a public apology from the British Government in relation to the 1971 Ballymurphy internment massacre. [17848/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Government consistently raises in its contacts with the British Government ongoing issues which are the legacy of the Troubles.

These issues are currently being considered by the Independent Consultative Group on the Past, which was established in June 2007, under the chairmanship of Archbishop Robin Eames and Denis Bradley. The Government welcomed the establishment of the Consultative Group and has remained in close contact with it.

Among the important topics on which the Consultative Group is deliberating is how best to meet the demand for truth, justice and apology for the many terrible deeds which occurred during the Troubles. As they move to develop their proposals the Consultative Group has met with many stakeholders across the spectrum of those affected, including in this jurisdiction: I understand that the group referred to in the question has met with the Consultative Group on the Past on a number of occasions.

My Department was represented at an event in Dublin on 30 April hosted by the group referred to in the question. My Department remains in ongoing contact with the group concerned and has, over the years, supported them in their work, including through the provision of assistance by the Reconciliation Fund.