Martin says Ireland to ‘co-operate fully’ with Omagh inquiry
T
anaiste Micheal Martin has stated Ireland will co-operate totally with a UK inquiry into the Omagh bombing, which he described as “one of the most brutal atrocities ever witnessed on this island”.
In a press release marking the twenty fifth anniversary of the bombing, Mr Martin stated: “We will never forget the 29 people who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the families whose suffering continues today.
“My thoughts are first and foremost with all those impacted by this attack, carried out with disregard for democracy, and for people.
“I have been honoured to meet with, and listen to, the families of the Omagh bomb victims over many years, most recently in June. Their search for the full truth of what happened has not been an easy or swift process.
We must keep working relentlessly on peace, dialogue and rebuilding trust
“The Omagh bomb atrocity showed the appalling impact of violence on communities. The campaign of violence in Northern Ireland was never justified. We must keep working relentlessly on peace, dialogue and rebuilding trust.”
Earlier this yr, Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris introduced that an unbiased statutory inquiry can be carried out into the atrocity.
Draft phrases of reference have been shared with the Irish authorities however Mr Martin stated it’s his understanding the chair of the inquiry, Lord Turnbull, intends to hunt the views of “those most affected” by the bombing earlier than they’re revealed.
Mr Martin, who can be Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, added: “Officials stand ready to engage with members of the UK’s inquiry team as soon as they are appointed.
“When we have further clarity on the nature of the UK inquiry, I will then consider, along with the Minister for Justice (Helen McEntee) and my Cabinet colleagues, the next steps in this jurisdiction.
“As has been done in relation to a number of historical inquiries, this State will co-operate fully.
“Justice for the victims and the families impacted by this atrocity will be at the heart of any action that the Government takes.”