Hume to appear before Bloody Sunday tribunal

The former leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party John Hume is due to appear before the Bloody Sunday tribunal in Derry today.

Mr Hume, who co-founded the civil rights movement in Derry in 1968, did not attend the march on January 30, 1972 in which 13 civilians were shot dead by the Parachute Regiment.

A 14th man later died of his injuries.

Despite being prominent in the civil rights movement at the time the Foyle MP had strongly urged against the ill-fated anti-internment march as trouble had erupted during a rally a week before.

But his advice was ignored when the Derry City Civil Rights Association decided to proceed despite the march being declared illegal.

The inquiry, which resumes today, was the focus of savage criticism last week from the Conservatives and Ulster Unionists over revelations that it has cost £52m (€84.4m) and will top £100m (€162.4m) by the time it has concluded.

Tony Blair, who back in 1998, announced the inquiry into the events surrounding one of the most controversial incidents in the history of the troubles, has defended the costs in Parliament.

In a breakdown of expenditure so far, it was disclosed that the UK firm of solicitors Eversheds had received almost £11m (€17.8m) to interview witnesses and for providing professional support and guidance.

Since it began, more than £13m (€21.1m) has been spent on information technology, while travel expenses for legal teams are currently at £1.3m (€2.1m).

The tribunal has already heard from almost 500 witnesses since March 2000.