Finucane inquiry ‘keeping with spirit’ of new UK approach to legacy – Harris

Irish president Michael D Higgins and Irish premier Simon Harris have welcomed the UK Government’s announcement of a public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane.

An inquiry into the Belfast solicitor’s murder 35 years ago is “keeping with the spirit” of the UK Government’s new commitment to legacy issues, Mr Harris said.

Mr Higgins paid tribute to the tenacity of the Finucane family in their long-running campaign.

“Today’s confirmation by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland that the British Government will establish a public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane is very welcome,” he said.

“Today’s decision is an important recognition of the heartbreak that has been carried by Geraldine Finucane and her family for so many years, and of their continuous campaigning for the truth.”

Deputy premier Micheal Martin also welcomed the announcement from Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn, stating it showed that the rule of law is being respected.

Mr Benn announced on Wednesday that a public inquiry would be held into the murder of solicitor Mr Finucane, 39, at his family home in north Belfast by the Ulster Defence Association in February 1989.

A series of probes have found the attack involved collusion with the state.

Mr Harris said he had recently discussed the case with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

He added: “I spoke to John Finucane by phone yesterday evening to underline the enduring importance that I, as Taoiseach, and the Government attach to progress in his father’s case.

“This is the beginning of a process and it will be important that, as details are confirmed, there is confidence that it can meet the standards and independence thresholds essential to an inquiry of this nature.

“I want to acknowledge the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Secretary of State Hilary Benn in coming to this decision.

“Prime Minister Starmer and I have discussed the Pat Finucane case, including as recently as last Saturday when we met in Dublin, and in follow up to a previous discussion in Chequers in July.”

The Taoiseach added: “I know that the Prime Minister is committed to finding a new approach to legacy issues in Northern Ireland, and today’s decision by the British Government is in keeping with the spirit of that commitment.

“I have indicated to the Prime Minister that we stand ready to work with him and his Government on legacy issues.”

Mr Martin said the next stage in the process would be the appointment of a judge to chair the inquiry and set the terms of reference.

The Tanaiste said: “This case matters, first and foremost, to the Finucane family.

“They have followed a long and challenging road since Pat Finucane’s murder in 1989 and since a public inquiry was recommended by Judge Peter Cory in 2004.

“It also matters to all of those, on all sides, working for justice in Northern Ireland.

“This significant decision shows that the voices of those most affected, Pat Finucane’s family, have been heard and that the rule of law is being respected.

“Those are two fundamental principles that must guide our approach to the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. I want to again thank the Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, for moving on this important case so soon after taking office.”