Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

PA Images

UK Labour calls for public inquiry into murder of Pat Finucane

The solicitor was shot by loyalist paramilitaries in front of his family in Belfast in 1989 amid claims of collusion with state security forces.

THE UK LABOUR party has urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson to “act without delay” and order a public inquiry into the murder of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane.

Finucane (39) was shot by loyalist paramilitaries in front of his family in 1989 amid claims of collusion with state security forces.

In February last year, the Supreme Court ruled that investigations into the fatal shooting of the solicitor have not been effective and fell short of international human rights standards.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis has indicated that a decision over how the Government will proceed will be announced next month. 

Shadow secretary of state Louise Haigh met with the Finucane family last week and has pledged her support.

Haigh has now written to Johnson pressing him to call a public inquiry.

“That this crime could happen at all in our country is shocking; that it has never been investigated to a lawful standard is unjustifiable,” she wrote.

“The delay by the Secretary of State (in reaching a decision on complying with the law) has added insult to injury.

“It is my view, and the long-standing view of the Labour Party inside and outside of Government, that an independent public inquiry is the only remaining mechanism which can establish the full truth and deliver on promises made to the family.

“The long years which have passed since the ceasefire and the Good Friday Agreement have served to demonstrate that, unless justice is done, and seen to be done, the wounds of the past simply will not be allowed to heal.

“I therefore urge you to act without delay.”

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

View 14 comments
Close
14 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel

     
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds