Taoiseach Michéal Martin has warned the UK that any unilateral move to ban future prosecutions related to the Troubles would be a 'breach of trust'. The Irish government 'strongly advised' against unilateral action, insisting victims must remain the priority.
Reports indicate the UK intends to introduce legislation, expected in the Queen's Speech on Tuesday, that would limit prosecutions for offences committed before the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. The move would reportedly apply to both British soldiers and former paramilitaries.
Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald called the plan an 'attack on the rule of law' and an attempt to put British soldiers above the law, continuing cover-ups. DUP MP Gavin Robinson expressed concerns, stating his party opposes an amnesty and that the proposal is a 'cop out'.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood described the reported plans as 'the biggest betrayal of victims by the British government' and accused the government of being 'shabby' and 'cynical'. He said the move would undermine the Stormont House Agreement and hinder reconciliation.
Ulster Unionist Party MLA Doug Beattie said the plan amounts to an amnesty for all, allowing everyone to 'get away with this'. Alliance Party leader Naomi Long criticised the lack of communication, saying it 'typifies the contempt with which Govt are treating victims'.
