TD calls for Dáil debate on UK Legacy Bill

Brendan Smith describes legislation as "flawed".

The Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party Chairperson, Brendan Smith TD has called for a debate in the Dáil on the passage of the UK legacy bill.

The Cavan-Monaghan TD said: “This flawed legislation will deny justice to families bereaved during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. These families, who have campaigned over the years with great grace and dignity for the truth to be established, continue to endure the pain of loss and to express their desire for accountability, and justice and truth. It is essential that avenues remain open for this.”

“However, the UK government has unilaterally closed down those avenues – despite the unanimous opposition of all political parties on the island of Ireland.”

“I believe it would be appropriate for the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to bring forward a Dáil motion expressing its total opposition to what the British government has forced through its parliament.”

“I know that the Tánaiste has sought legal advice about a challenge to the legislation in the European Court of Human Rights – and we await the outcome of that.”

“However, I strongly feel that Dáil Éireann should formally record its opposition to this atrocity amnesty. No-one, whether in the IRA, the INLA, the UVF, the UFF, the RUC or the British Army should escape justice for committing heinous crimes. It is very important that Dáil Éireann sends that message.”