The Secretary of State commits to the restoration of the Loughgall Inquest

Today the Loughgall Truth and Justice Campaign met with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr Hilary Benn MP.  The purpose of the meeting was to discuss his ongoing plans for the repeal of the Legacy Act (NI) the implications for the Loughgall case.  

Following the requests from the family members, the Secretary of State has reaffirmed his commitment made in the House of Commons to the restoration of all legacy inquests which were halted as a result of the Legacy Act.  

The Secretary of State made it clear that this includes the Loughgall Inquest.   

Mairead Kelly, sister of Patrick Kelly, said:

“After today’s meeting, we have reassurance that efforts are ongoing to bring back the inquest that was  rightfully directed by the  Advocate General ten years ago.  

We have placed our trust in the Secretary of State at this time to fulfill that commitment”

Darragh Mackin, Solicitor for the families said:

“From the outset, our clients have stood steadfast in their opposition to the legacy act.  Eventually, after the various strands of litigation, there is light at the end of a very dark tunnel.  

The families have today been informed that the Loughgall case will return as part of his commitment to the reviving of those legacy inquests which were prematurely halted.   

This is a small step in the right direction towards the restoration of the rule of law.”

ENDS

NOTES: 

1. Our Mr Darragh Mackin and Peter Corrigan act for the Loughgall families in their inquest.
2. For all enquries, please contact Mrs Mairead Kelly on 00353879889823 or our Mr Darragh Mackin on darragh@phoenix-law.org or +447704034143.  
3. Mrs Hughes is one of the lead applicants in the Legacy Act Judicial Review which determined that the Legacy Act was incompatible with human rights and the Northern Ireland Protocol.