Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal released the following statement after the Irish and British governments announced a joint framework to address the legacy issues in Northern Ireland.
“I am pleased that the Irish and British governments have agreed on a comprehensive framework that charts a constructive path forward on a matter that has caused deep pain and consternation for countless families and communities. Every political party, north and south, agrees that these cases should be addressed and those responsible held accountable. As a guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the United States has a vested interest in promoting the accord’s core tenets of peace, reconciliation, and accountability. Today’s announcement underscores those very tenets.
“I am especially heartened to see the substantial changes to what will now be called The Legacy Commission, which will bring trust and impartiality to finding the necessary answers. The continuation of proper and independent investigations, the ability to commence inquests by victims and survivors, and the removal of conditional immunity provisions are significant and critical mechanisms to finally achieve justice.
“I want to thank Taoiseach Micheál Martin and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for their dedication and determination in seeking a fair and lasting resolution to this issue. Throughout my career, I have worked with Taoisigh, British Prime Ministers, and all political parties, and I have remained in contact with the impacted families. I have been steadfast in my decades of advocacy, working to ensure that families receive the information they deserve about their loved ones. This transparency is essential to bringing healing and closure to those most affected. Just as cooperation and good faith negotiation brought an end to the Troubles through the Good Friday Agreement, these principles will guide us as we work to address the issues surrounding the legacy of the past.
“There have been too many missed chances to properly address the legacy of violence during the Troubles. I am pleased that this new commitment to reciprocal cooperation between the Irish and British governments will finally lay to rest generations of pain and suffering. Truth, transparency, and justice – that is what the victims of this horrific period in Ireland’s history, and their families, deserve. Today’s announcement marks a meaningful step forward by both parties toward achieving that goal, building a future defined not by conflict, but by peace and prosperity – one that can be enjoyed across the island of Ireland for future generations to come.”
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