Bloody Sunday victim’s brother urges authorities to ‘get real’ and ensure case is heard in Londonderry

Liam Wray spoke out after a final decision on the venue for future hearings involving “Soldier F” was adjourned for another month.

The ex-paratrooper is accused of murdering James Wray and William McKinney on January 30 1972, when troops opened fire on civil rights demonstrators in the Bogside area of Londonderry, killing 13 people.

He also stands accused of the attempted murders of Patrick O’Donnell, Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon and Michael Quinn. He faces a seventh supporting charge of the attempted murder of a person or persons unknown on the day.

Mr McKinney’s brother Mickey echoed Mr Wray’s concerns after a decision on venue, which was expected yesterday morning, was put back until next month.

“It’s very important, this is where the crime was committed, not half a mile from where we are standing here,” said Mr McKinney outside Derry courthouse.

“We are the victims here. The people who are standing here this morning are the victims. This is where the case should be heard, not Belfast because of one man (Soldier F).”

While preliminary court proceedings have been heard in Bishop Street court in Derry, the court authorities are deliberating whether a committal hearing and any potential future trial should be moved to Belfast.

It comes amid security concerns about staging the proceedings in Derry and practical issues about the size and acoustics of the court facilities in the city.

Soldier F has yet to appear in person at any preliminary hearings, but would be required to attend his committal.

Mr Wray noted that previous investigations linked to the case had been heard away from the city, insisting issues around security and acoustics could be overcome.

“The atrocity happened in Derry. It was witnessed by many, many people. The majority of witnesses in this case are going to be Derry people. For them to have to trip up to Belfast, which is not an easy journey, would be ridiculous.”

Mr Wray added: “It’s about time people got real, it’s about time to say justice should be seen to be done and it should be heard to be done too in this courthouse.”

District Judge Barnie McElholm adjourned the matter until March 26, when he said Judge Magill would decide on the venue.