Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 November 2018
143. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has read a recent publication by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47807/18]
View answerI am aware of the publication to which the Deputy refers.
The abduction and murder of Jean McConville by the IRA in 1972 was an appalling crime of the Troubles, and which had such a devastating and enduring impact on her young family.
There remain proceedings before the courts in Belfast regarding a pending prosecution related to the case and I therefore do not intend to make any commentary in this regard.
Any individual who has information on this or any other Troubles-related death should bring it to the attention of the Police Service of Northern Ireland or An Garda Síochána, as appropriate.
It is vitally important that all Troubles-related murders, whatever the circumstances, can be fully and effectively investigated and prosecutions pursued wherever possible.
The Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR), which conducted searches for the remains of Jean McConville in 1999 and 2002, and others who were killed and buried secretly by paramilitary groups during the Troubles, has worked and continues to work tirelessly in pursuit of its mandate. The Commission’s only aim is to locate the victims’ remains in order that they may be returned to their families to receive a decent burial. The Irish and British Governments are strongly supportive of the ICLVR’s ongoing work in support of the victims’ families.
The Government is also continuing to seek progress with the implementation of the legacy framework provided for under the Stormont House Agreement of 2014. Over the last 18 months, I have engaged extensively with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and with all of the political parties to support a way forward on the implementation of the Stormont House Agreement legacy bodies and the adequate resourcing of legacy inquests in Northern Ireland.
Comprehensive progress on legacy issues from the Troubles is crucial in order to meet the legitimate needs and expectations of victims and survivors, and to contribute to broader societal reconciliation as an integral part of the Peace Process.
The Government will continue to engage in support of that, consistent with our role and responsibilities as a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement.
