The latest legacy amendments announced by the British Government represent a deeply concerning statement of intent on legacy and amount to no more than a ‘Veterans Charter’ for British state forces, Sinn Féin MP John Finucane has said.
The North Belfast MP said they raise serious questions about whose rights this legislation is designed to protect and whether victims and bereaved families will ever receive the truth and accountability they deserve.
Mr. Finucane said, “The British Government cannot claim to be delivering a legacy framework capable of commanding confidence across all communities while introducing measures that risk undermining independent investigations and the equal application of the law.
“There must be no hierarchy of victims. Every family deserves equal access to truth and justice, regardless of who killed their loved one. Political pressure from the British military or intelligence services must not stand in the way.
“These amendments risk preferential treatment, providing additional protections for former members of the British military while placing further obstacles in the path of effective investigations.
“The requirement for the British Attorney General, who is a political appointee, to approve prosecutions raises serious concerns about whether families will be able to get truth or justice.
“The ultimate test is whether this legislation delivers a credible, independent and human-rights-compliant process that enables all victims and families to pursue truth and accountability.
“Sinn Féin will fundamentally oppose any attempt by the British Government to placate the British military lobby at the expense of victims’ rights and the pursuit of truth and justice.”
