Doug Beattie: Dublin has been vocal in demanding a Pat Finucane inquiry but it must now face up to its own role in the Troubles

Thousands of lives were lost in the Troubles.

Every single family is mourning the loss of their loved ones with many still seeking truth and justice, and they are all entitled to an Article Two compliant investigation.

On this occasion the government has made the right decision. There cannot be a hierarchy of victims.

The UK Supreme Court was clear in 2019 when it stated, ‘It does not follow that a public inquiry of the type which the appellant seeks must be ordered.

It is for the state to decide, in light of the incapacity of Sir Desmond de Silva’s review and the inquiries which preceded it to meet the procedural requirements of Article Two, what form of investigation, if indeed any is now feasible, is required in order to meet that requirement.’

What we must do now is establish and agree a legacy process which is fair, balanced, equitable and proportionate. We need a process which can deliver closure for as many families as possible.

And for the avoidance of doubt, as far as the Ulster Unionist Party is concerned, that process cannot be the legacy arrangements of the Stormont House Agreement.

The Dublin government has been very vocal and visible with regard to demanding a public inquiry in the Finucane case.

Dublin must now step up to the mark and account for the role played by the Republic during the Troubles, especially in the very early stages.

Dublin cannot walk away from its responsibilities as to what it holds in its files and it cannot credibly demand of London what it is not prepared to do itself.

Doug Beattie MC MLA, Ulster Unionist Party Justice spokesperson

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