Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013
132. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State the serious issues relating to collusion outlined in the recent publication, Lethal Allies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47095/13]
View answerThe author of the book to which the Deputy refers kindly briefed my officials on the main conclusions shortly in advance of publication. Several of the murders mentioned would have been raised with the British side over the years, following representations from politicians and clergy in the area. We are now examining the text in detail and will consider further action in light of that examination. Dealing with the legacy of the past is an issue which is essential if we are to make greater progress towards reconciliation and a shared society. The Government supports the work of the Panel of Parties established by the First Minister and deputy First Minister to look at dealing with the past, with parades and with flags and emblems. When I met with the Independent Chair of the Panel Dr. Haass in Dublin last week we discussed how best to deal with the legacy of the past. I offered whatever support possible from the Irish Government to help him in his work.
My Department is in on-going contact with a number of victims' groups, including many of those who lost loved ones in the incidents set out in the book to which the Deputy refers. The grief and suffering they have had to endure unites them with the experience of thousands of other families who suffered loss and harm through violence. It is essential that, as we seek to move to a better future for all the people of this island, we acknowledge those who have suffered most from the conflict and work to build a reconciled society.
