Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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174. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Government has any further plans regarding engaging with the British government over the Northern Ireland Troubles Legacy Act 2023 and the request for a fresh inquest into the 1973 killing of a person (details supplied) given that a fresh inquest was approved only for the Act becoming law a few hours later; the support being provided to the deceased’s family; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29120/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Intensive and constructive work has been ongoing with the British government since last autumn to determine if we can move forward together on legacy, through fundamental reform of the Legacy Act and the commission it establishes.

I am in ongoing discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on these issues, with a focus on finding a way forward on a number of issues where policy gaps remain.

I have also continued to meet with a number of Northern Ireland victims’ and survivors’ groups to hear their perspectives on legacy matters. I would like to express my gratitude to them and to all who continue to advocate on behalf of those who suffered terrible trauma and loss during the Troubles. Their input is invaluable as we assess whether, and how, we can develop an agreed approach on this issue of fundamental importance.

On 19 May, I met with the DUP, Sinn Féin, SDLP, and Alliance in Belfast, and I also subsequently spoke to UUP leader Mike Nesbitt by phone. This was an important opportunity to hear their perspectives on legacy matters.

In relation to the case in question, our position is that the prohibition on legacy inquests instituted by the UK Legacy Act should be removed. Every family deserves an effective investigation and access to justice for their loved one.

In February 2023, my predecessor met with the family in question and wrote to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in March 2023, bringing the case to his attention. The case was also raised in subsequent meetings dealing with legacy issues.

As I have consistently said, compliance with the ECHR, and the ability to command the confidence of victims and survivors of the Troubles, remain the key benchmarks against which to assess progress in the coming period. I have been clear, any agreement on legacy with the UK government must be one that provides, not prohibits, viable routes to truth, accountability and justice for families and victims.