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Statement by Minister for Justice Simon Harris on the announcement of a UK Statutory Inquiry into the Omagh Bombing

The Minister for Justice has today noted the decision by the UK Government to establish a Statutory Inquiry on foot of the judgment [2021] NIQB 85 in the Belfast High Court.

 

Minister Harris said:

 

What happened at Omagh was an unspeakable and brutal act of cruelty.  The terrorists who carried it out had simply no sense of humanity and they displayed a complete and shocking disregard for life itself. It is they who carry responsibility for this brutal act.”

 

“We will never forget those who lost their lives, those who were injured and the families whose suffering for their loved ones continues.

 

“The Irish Government is deeply conscious of the enduring suffering and hardship that survivors of Troubles-related attacks bear. The Government has always sought to acknowledge and address the legitimate needs and expectations of victims’ families and survivors of Troubles-related attacks.

 

“It is the case, of course, that a number of reviews/investigations have previously taken place in this jurisdiction with regard to Omagh.

 

“I will be discussing today’s announcement with my Government colleagues and we will, of course, consider what further action is required on our part in response to the UK Government’s decision to establish an Inquiry.

 

I look forward to receiving further detail on the proposed UK Inquiry as it becomes available.”