Statement by the Tánaiste following the announcement of an inquiry into the 1989 murder of Pat Finucane

I want to warmly welcome the announcement by the Secretary of State of his decision to establish an independent public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane.

This case matters, first and foremost, to the Finucane family. They have followed a long and challenging road since Pat Finucane’s murder in 1989 and since a public inquiry was recommended by Judge Peter Cory in 2004.

It also matters to all of those, on all sides, working for justice in Northern Ireland.

This significant decision shows that the voices of those most affected, Pat Finucane’s family, have been heard and that the rule of law is being respected.

Those are two fundamental principles that must guide our approach to the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

I want to again thank the Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, for moving on this important case so soon after taking office.

I understand that the next stage in this process will be the appointment of a judge to chair the inquiry and the terms of reference.

ENDS

Press Office

11 September 2024