The bombings which took place in Dublin and Monaghan on Friday, 17 May 1974 were among the most tragic occurrences in the history of this island. Once again, I express my deepest sympathies to all of the victims and their families for their suffering. At all times, my Department and its agencies endeavour to treat members of the public with dignity and respect. I have established a remembrance commission, which is independent in the exercise of its functions, to administer a scheme of acknowledgement, remembrance and assistance for victims in this jurisdiction of the conflict in Northern Ireland. While it would be inappropriate for me to discuss matters involving any individual cases, all applicants to the commission are treated with due sensitivity and care.