Families ask for help in getting justice

THE families of some of the victims of Bloody Sunday have met with the Taoiseach to urge him to help bring those responsible for the deaths through the courts.

Representatives of some of the victims met with Taoiseach Brian Cowen at Government Buildings yesterday evening, saying they wanted to thank the Government for its efforts to secure justice on their behalf.

However, a number of those entering the meeting said that while they were happy the Saville Report, published on Tuesday, had vindicated their relatives, they were still seeking the prosecution of those who fired the fatal shots on January 30, 1972.

Kate Nash, whose brother Willie was killed and whose father was also injured in the shootings and died “a broken-hearted man” in 1999, said: “We would perhaps like his help to push that forward”.

Asked if that meant Mr Cowen contacting British Prime Minister David Cameron, she said: “Possibly, possibly.

“Whatever sort of help he can give us, we will take it. I think that is the view of the group.”

However, she said the group had yet to discuss the possibility of a campaign to push the issue of possible prosecutions, adding that anyone found to have committed perjury should face the courts.

“Those who they think did, they can prosecute too.”

Leo Young, whose brother John was killed, echoed those views, and Michael McKinney, whose brother William died, said: “I don’t think we could have done this without the Irish Government.”

He said the publication of the Saville report had helped close a big chapter in his life, but he added: “Somebody has to be held to account.”

Kay Duddy, sister of Bloody Sunday victim Jackie Duddy, said she hoped the publication of the report would further the cause of peace and reconciliation.

After the meeting, Mr Cowen said he believed the findings of the report, the reaction of the people of Derry and of Prime Minister Cameron could significantly advance the cause of healing and reconciliation.

“Yesterday’s scenes at the Guildhall and the dignity shown by the families on that momentous day will long remain in our memories,” Mr Cowen said.

He said: “I believe that the findings of the report, the reaction of the people of Derry and the brave and honest words of Prime Minister [David] Cameron in Westminster can significantly advance the cause of healing and reconciliation.

“We owe it to all of the victims of the Troubles and to our children to continue the great collective endeavour to build a better future for all of the people throughout this island.”