Families of Troubles Victims Challenge UK Government in High Court
Six families who lost their loved ones during the Troubles in Northern Ireland have initiated a legal challenge against the UK government’s controversial Legacy Bill. The families have lodged judicial review proceedings, questioning the lawfulness of the legislation and its compatibility with international human rights standards. The bill, known as the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill, has already been passed into law and is awaiting royal assent.
Under this bill, former terrorists who cooperate with a truth-recovery commission are granted a limited form of immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offenses. Additionally, the bill puts a halt to all future civil cases and inquests related to the Troubles. However, all major parties in Stormont, victims’ campaign groups, and the Irish government have opposed this bill.
In response to the passage of the Legacy Bill, the families have expressed their intent to submit applications to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg. They argue that the bill violates human rights standards, and they seek justice for their loved ones who were victims of crimes committed during the Troubles.
Among the families involved in this legal challenge is Kathleen Thompson, whose son Billy was shot dead by a member of the Royal Green Jacket regiment in Derry in 1971. Despite evidence presented, a coroner rejected the testimony of a former soldier responsible for killing Mrs. Thompson. Likewise, Una Eakin, whose husband was murdered by loyalist paramilitaries in 1989, has faced similar challenges in finding justice for her loved one.
Teresa Jordan is another family member seeking justice. Her son Pearse was fatally shot by the RUC on the Falls Road in Belfast in 1992. Two former RUC officers who provided evidence during the inquest into Pearse’s death have been formally referred to the Public Prosecution Service for potential charges of perjury or perverting the course of justice. Yet, no prosecutorial decision has been made so far.
The Legacy Bill has been met with criticism not only from victims’ families but also from political parties and governments. The Irish government, for instance, is exploring the possibility of pursuing a case against the UK in relation to the Legacy Bill.
The families hope that their legal challenge will highlight the flaws and potential human rights violations embedded within the Legacy Bill. Their pursuit of justice will bring attention to the need for a comprehensive and fair approach to addressing the legacy of the Troubles, one that ensures accountability and facilitates the healing process for all those affected.
As the families proceed with their legal battle, the future of the Legacy Bill remains uncertain. The outcomes of their judicial reviews and potential applications to the ECHR will likely shape the path forward in dealing with the Troubles’ legacy. In the quest for justice and reconciliation, striking a delicate balance between addressing past wrongs and promoting peace will be crucial.
