Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 September 2023
50. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his engagement with the British Government on issues relating to the 1974 Dublin and Monaghan bombings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41554/23]
View answerThe implementation of the All-Party Dáil motions relating to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings continues to be a priority, in fulfillment of the Programme for a Partnership Government. The continuing absence of a substantive response from the British government on these motions is of deep concern and is an issue I consistently raise with UK Ministers.
When I met with the Secretary of State in Dublin on 16 May to discuss legacy matters, I highlighted to him that the following day was the 49th anniversary of the bombings. I raised the matter again at the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference in June, reminding him of the urgent need for a considered response with a view to ensuring access by an independent, international judicial figure to all original documents relating to the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings
I am conscious that the work by Jon Boucher continues and is very relevant to a number of cases North and South, including the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. I have met with Mr. Boucher to hear about his work and that of his team. It is to be hoped that the report being conducted by Chief Constable Boucher will contribute to the long process of justice, truth and acknowledgement for the victims and survivors.
I attended a very moving and powerful memorial in Dublin on 17 May hosted by Justice for the Forgotten, to remember those that lost their lives in those attacks and to meet with the families of those killed and injured. I assured those families that the Government is committed to actively pursuing the implementation of the all-Party Dáil motions, and to maintaining a close and cooperative relationship with Justice for the Forgotten. Justice for the Forgotten are an organisation funded under the Department of Foreign Affairs' Reconciliation Fund.
Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the appalling attacks of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. I am acutely aware that families have waited too long for answers. The Government will continue to seek the full facts of the events of 17 May 1974 and of other attacks in this jurisdiction during the Troubles.
