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13/01/2023
Starmer Commits To Repealing Legacy Bill
Keir Starmer has given his commitment that should be become Prime Minister, his government would repeal the Conservative government's "toxic" Legacy Bill.
The widely criticised Bill would "shut down paths to justice and accountability for families who have been campaigning for decades on behalf of their loved ones".
SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood discussed the impact of the bill with the Labour Leader during discussions at Parliament Buildings this week.
Commenting after the meetings, Colum Eastwood MP said: "The Conservative Legacy Bill is an affront to victims and survivors, it seeks to shield paramilitary and state killers from investigation while shutting down paths to justice for families who have been campaigning for decades on behalf of their loved ones. It has no support in Northern Ireland, it is opposed by every political party, victims and survivors and the Irish Government. We do not consent to it and the Tories have no mandate here to enforce it.
"Keir Starmer understands the importance of truth, justice and accountability to victims and survivors. He understands the burden and the weight of cross-generational trauma that has been caused by the failure to adequately address the legacy of our past. And he understands the basic need for people in Northern Ireland to consent to any process designed to address the past.
"I warmly welcome Keir's commitment that as Prime Minister, his government would repeal this toxic legislation and return to fulfilling the human rights of victims and survivors. There is no other approach that will command consent here.
"SDLP MPs will support Keir and the Labour Party when it comes to repealing this legislation at the first available opportunity."
The widely criticised Bill would "shut down paths to justice and accountability for families who have been campaigning for decades on behalf of their loved ones".
SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood discussed the impact of the bill with the Labour Leader during discussions at Parliament Buildings this week.
Commenting after the meetings, Colum Eastwood MP said: "The Conservative Legacy Bill is an affront to victims and survivors, it seeks to shield paramilitary and state killers from investigation while shutting down paths to justice for families who have been campaigning for decades on behalf of their loved ones. It has no support in Northern Ireland, it is opposed by every political party, victims and survivors and the Irish Government. We do not consent to it and the Tories have no mandate here to enforce it.
"Keir Starmer understands the importance of truth, justice and accountability to victims and survivors. He understands the burden and the weight of cross-generational trauma that has been caused by the failure to adequately address the legacy of our past. And he understands the basic need for people in Northern Ireland to consent to any process designed to address the past.
"I warmly welcome Keir's commitment that as Prime Minister, his government would repeal this toxic legislation and return to fulfilling the human rights of victims and survivors. There is no other approach that will command consent here.
"SDLP MPs will support Keir and the Labour Party when it comes to repealing this legislation at the first available opportunity."
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The Department of Justice has launched a £55 million initiative with a new Coroner investigation unit in a bid speed up legacy inquests and address all outstanding cases. It comes as some of the "most sensitive, complex and high profile deaths" during the Troubles are yet to be fully investigated, according to the department.
New Legacy Inquest System Launched To Speed Up Investigations
The Department of Justice has launched a £55 million initiative with a new Coroner investigation unit in a bid speed up legacy inquests and address all outstanding cases. It comes as some of the "most sensitive, complex and high profile deaths" during the Troubles are yet to be fully investigated, according to the department.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
