Menu
24/04/2008
Hain 'Halted' Finucane Inquiry
Issues surrounding a possible inquiry into collusion by the security forces in the murder of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane are again to be highlighted this week.
Despite five years having passed since former Metropolitan Police Chief Sir John Stevens reported that his investigative team had uncovered evidence that rogue elements in British Army intelligence and the Royal Ulster Constabulary colluded with the Ulster Freedom Fighters in the murder of both Mr Finucane and a student, Adam Lambert two years earlier, the British Government is now believed to have put 'on hold' any preparations for a public inquiry into the controversial murder.
As outgoing Irish Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, is again meeting with the solicitor's widow, Geraldine Finucane, it has been revealed that a decision was taken by former NI Secretary of State Peter Hain to stop preparations for the inquiry.
Mrs Finucane said ahead of today's meeting with Mr Ahern in Government Buildings in Dublin: "On April 7, 2008, my solicitor received a letter from the Northern Ireland Office, which stated that, 18 months ago in autumn 2006, a decision was taken by Peter Hain, to cease all preparations for an inquiry.
"We were not informed of this decision at the time.
"The letter stated that the decision was taken because my family refused to accept ministerial control of an inquiry under the notorious Inquiries Act 2005.
"They appear to be saying that unless we agree that British Government Ministers should be allowed to control what information the inquiry is permitted to examine in public, there will be no inquiry at all."
(BMcC)
Despite five years having passed since former Metropolitan Police Chief Sir John Stevens reported that his investigative team had uncovered evidence that rogue elements in British Army intelligence and the Royal Ulster Constabulary colluded with the Ulster Freedom Fighters in the murder of both Mr Finucane and a student, Adam Lambert two years earlier, the British Government is now believed to have put 'on hold' any preparations for a public inquiry into the controversial murder.
As outgoing Irish Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, is again meeting with the solicitor's widow, Geraldine Finucane, it has been revealed that a decision was taken by former NI Secretary of State Peter Hain to stop preparations for the inquiry.
Mrs Finucane said ahead of today's meeting with Mr Ahern in Government Buildings in Dublin: "On April 7, 2008, my solicitor received a letter from the Northern Ireland Office, which stated that, 18 months ago in autumn 2006, a decision was taken by Peter Hain, to cease all preparations for an inquiry.
"We were not informed of this decision at the time.
"The letter stated that the decision was taken because my family refused to accept ministerial control of an inquiry under the notorious Inquiries Act 2005.
"They appear to be saying that unless we agree that British Government Ministers should be allowed to control what information the inquiry is permitted to examine in public, there will be no inquiry at all."
(BMcC)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
23 February 2004
Finucane family press Stevens on murder inquiry progress
The family of murdered Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane have met with Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir John Stevens to discuss the progress of the investigation into his murder.
Finucane family press Stevens on murder inquiry progress
The family of murdered Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane have met with Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir John Stevens to discuss the progress of the investigation into his murder.
18 November 2024
Other News In Brief
Two Arrested After Dangerous Driving Incident In North Belfast Two men have been arrested following a dangerous driving incident in north Belfast in the early hours of Monday, November 18th. The incident began on the Whitewell Road, where a car was observed driving erratically.
Other News In Brief
Two Arrested After Dangerous Driving Incident In North Belfast Two men have been arrested following a dangerous driving incident in north Belfast in the early hours of Monday, November 18th. The incident began on the Whitewell Road, where a car was observed driving erratically.
25 November 2024
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
18 October 2011
Finucane Refusal Leaves Irish 'Dissatisfied'
Relations between the UK and the Irish Republic's governments seem to have taken a bitter turn after the Irish hit out at British Prime Minister David Cameron over his refusal to order a public inquiry into the controversial murder of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane.
Finucane Refusal Leaves Irish 'Dissatisfied'
Relations between the UK and the Irish Republic's governments seem to have taken a bitter turn after the Irish hit out at British Prime Minister David Cameron over his refusal to order a public inquiry into the controversial murder of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane.
12 February 2009
Call For Answers, As Finucane Vigil Is Held
A candle-lit vigil was held in Belfast last night to mark 20 years since the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane. Mr Finucane was gunned-down at home in front of his wife and young family in what is now believed to have been a state-sanctioned attack.
Call For Answers, As Finucane Vigil Is Held
A candle-lit vigil was held in Belfast last night to mark 20 years since the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane. Mr Finucane was gunned-down at home in front of his wife and young family in what is now believed to have been a state-sanctioned attack.
-
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.
