I hope that remarks on abuse are extended to punishment attacks

He said, “I hope me speaking publicly maybe gives some people confidence to come forward.”

This is to be commended.

I hope his sentiments also extend to the many victims of IRA punishment gangs in the Newry/South Armagh area down through the years

I think particularly of the late Paul Quinn, who lies in a grave in Cullyhanna. He won’t be able to come forward to tell his story of physical abuse at the hands of the Provisionals.

Perhaps now however, Mr Murphy will finally agree to meet his parents?

Pól Ó Murchú, Newry