Topical Issue
Response by Minister for Justice and Equality
Helen McEntee T.D.,
The release of information provided by Seán Mac Stíofáin, former member of the IRA army council, to members of an Garda Síochána in respect of the importation of arms during the period 1969/1970 - Member(s): Seán Haughey
Response
I thank the Deputy for submitting this matter for debate and I can understand its importance to the families of those involved.
This period in 1970 and the arguments surrounding the Arms Trial was an important time in our history, the repercussions of which continue to reverberate to this day. It was one of the most significant political controversies in the history of the State and remains of abiding interest despite the passage of 50 years.
As the Deputy will know, the National Archives Act provides that Departmental files are subject to consideration for release to the National Archives where appropriate and open to public inspection.
I understand that many of the records related to the Arms Trial were released to the National Archives in 2000. While the Deputy will appreciate that some records could not be released because they contained sensitive Garda reports or potentially defamatory information, it should be noted that these files are subject to periodic review including as to whether they should be released.
As the Deputy will be aware, related matters were also the subject of reviews by the Attorney General and the Minister for Justice in 2001 which were debated in these Houses at the time.
Any fresh insights into the Arms Trial are bound to be not just of historical interest, but of contemporary interest, particularly to the family members of those involved. It is not surprising that these events have attracted considerable interest and, no doubt, will continue to do so in the coming years. This is all the more so when it is inevitable, that as further accounts come to light, explanations may be provided but further questions may also be posed.
At this stage, given the long passage of time, it is difficult to see how differing accounts can be validated or adjudicated on at this remove, particularly where many of those involved are no longer in a position to defend themselves.
As Minister for Justice, I cannot speculate with regard to matters of that time and will leave the issues to history to judge.